Avian Influenza Specific Information
All Poultry and Bird Keepers
Assistance is sought from poultry producers and bird keepers in Australia to be alert and to report any unusual signs of disease immediately to local vets, agricultural agencies or the Emergency Animal Disease Watch Hotline on 1800 675 888.
The sooner authorities are alerted to an outbreak of avian influenza, the faster action can be taken to stop its spread and get it eradicated.
Although commercial poultry farmers have well-developed biosecurity systems that have been strengthened in recent years, all bird keepers and poultry producers, particularly backyard enterprises, should have strict biosecurty measures in place.
What is biosecurity and what do I need to do as a bird owner?
‘Biosecurity’ is protecting the economy, environment and people’s health from pests and disease. It includes trying to prevent new pests and diseases from arriving, and helping to control outbreaks when they do occur.
The DAFF website has comprehensive information available for all bird owners, as well as free biosecurity materials. See www.daff.gov.au/birds. Alternatively, contact your state or territory department of primary industries or agriculture.
Additional Resources
Related industry websites:
- Australian Chicken Meat Federation
- Australian Egg Corporation Limited (AECL)
- Animal Health Australia
- www.farmbiosecurity.com.au
Recreational Shooters
Duck shooters have a significant role in reporting anything unusual such as large numbers of dead birds. This will ensure authorities can contain and eradicate the disease as quickly as possible.
As a precaution, it is important when handling and dressing birds that thorough hygiene practices are adopted. This includes using gloves, a face mask and also disinfecting hands, clothing and any equipment that comes into contact with birds.
It should also be noted that proper cooking of poultry will kill the disease but freezing will not. The disease can survive in water for many days, if not weeks, depending on temperature.
Read more about avian influenza and what you can do as a recreational shooter:
News Article Word [31Kb]
Australian Wildlife Health Network
TopCat and Dog Owners
Susceptibility of cats and dogs
Travellers
Australians travelling overseas are encouraged to avoid contact with live domestic birds (such as chickens, ducks and geese) on farms and in market places and avoid contact with sick or dead birds. Practise good hygiene at all times. While travelling, it is suggested that you regularly check the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Travel Bulletinand country-specific travel advice for information about any change to the current situation and whether additional precautions are recommended.
Additional public health information about avian influenza is available on the Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing (DoHA) website.
TopNon-English Speakers 
Call 131 450 for the national Translating and Interpreting Service for non-english speakers or contact your embassy or representative in Australia.
