H5N1 Avian Influenza, or bird flu, has been detected for the first time in Australia and Victoria as of June.
The Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) have not confirmed any bird flu detections in the Frankston municipality, however there are currently reported potential cases awaiting testing. Presently there have been confirmed cases in Greater Crested Terns and Silver Gulls (Seagulls) on the Mornington Peninsula, Phillip Island and in the City of Casey.
DEECA is leading the Victoria-wide response to H5N1, with other departments such as Agriculture Victoria and Health Victoria, and local councils working closely to support our wildlife, poultry industry and health systems. Frankston City Council is receiving regular updates from DEECA who are providing advice and guidelines for best practise in managing this outbreak in the safest and most humane way possible.
While there is no need for alarm, we encourage residents and visitors to stay informed and aware of official advice from DEECA. It is important to note that the risk to public health remains low, with no major adjustments to daily life for residents currently being recommended.
Current status
For the most up to date information on detections, species and localities please see:
Community reports play an important role in Victoria's early detection of H5N1 and helps support the preparedness of our biosecurity systems.
What you can do
Importantly, if you see sick or dead birds or other wildlife, do not touch them.
- AVOID contact with sick or dead birds, wildlife or their environment
- RECORD what you see and where you saw it.
- REPORT it to DEECA using the online form or call the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
What findings should I report?
Make a report if you find even one sick or deceased:
- wild seabird, waterbird, shorebird or bird of prey
- marine mammal (e.g. seal, sea lion, dolphin).
You should also make a report if you find five or more sick or deceased wild birds of any species.
This applies to any location in Victoria.
What information should I include in the report?
Make sure to include:
- Accurate location information such as location name or address and a description of your surroundings or closest address.
- Relevant observations of the state of the animal, identifying features etc.
Following a report, DEECA will assess each report and decide if testing is needed.
The current risk of bird flu to people in Australia is low. Bird flu is not a food safety risk for chicken meat and eggs if they are handled and cooked correctly.
Cases of H5N1 are extremely rare and generally occur in those who have close contact with infected animals, such as livestock. Bird flu also does not easily spread between people.
Precautions you can take:
- Avoid direct contact with sick or deceased birds or other animals, their faeces, and potentially contaminated environments.
- Practice good hygiene and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) if you must be in proximity to suspected cases.
- Get your seasonal flu vaccination as it reduces the risk of becoming seriously ill if you are exposed to both seasonal flu and bird flu at the same time.
-
If you have been in contact with sick or deceased birds and you develop flu like symptoms, seek medical attention.
For further information about H5N1 bird flu and risk to human health, visit:
Chief Health Officer advice: Health Victoria website - Avian influenza found in birds in Victoria
Better Health Channel website - Better Health Channel – bird flu
Wellbeing
If you feel overwhelmed or distressed, it is important to ask for help. You can seek help by:
- talking to your general practitioner (GP),
- contacting your local Mental Health & Wellbeing Hub,
- contacting your mental health specialist, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, counsellor or social worker.
- In an emergency where there is immediate risk of harm to a person, call Triple Zero (000). For 24-hour crisis support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
Dogs and Cats
It is recommended that you take precautions when walking your dog(s) or allowing your pets outdoor access including:
- Keeping dogs on leads when walking. Leads may also be recommended in designated free roam areas if there is a perceived risk of exposure.
- Keeping cats indoors, or outdoors in effective cat enclosures.
- Keeping your pets away from sick or deceased birds or other animals, especially in coastal locations.
- Keeping your pets away from areas where birds congregate (such as water bodies) and areas where there are large amounts of bird droppings.
For information on the management and advice for backyard poultry and the poultry industry, please see the below website: