Where it’s found
H5 High pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) clade 2.3.4.4b is a global concern. It has been spreading since 2020, causing outbreaks in Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, North America and South America.
There have been detections on sub-Antarctic Islands. There is concern that introduction of the virus to the Antarctic continent would have significant environmental impacts.
Australia has had no reported outbreaks of H5 HPAI clade 2.3.4.4b.
The H5 strain should not be confused with current H7 HPAI outbreaks in Victoria and New South Wales.
What it affects
HPAI can affect a variety of animals. This includes wild and domestic birds, and mammals.
The HPAI H5 clade 2.3.4.4b has caused extensive losses of poultry and wild birds. Spillover infections in mammals, including sporadic human infections, have also occurred.
It is a threat to Australia’s poultry industries and biodiversity.
How to protect against HPAI
There is no way to prevent new strains of avian influenza entering Australia with migratory wild birds or transmission between wild birds.
Find out how to protect your birds and Australia’s unique wildlife from possible outbreaks of HPAI.
Poultry producers and domestic bird owners should take measures to protect their birds against avian influenza.
People who manage wildlife populations can take steps to prepare for a potential outbreak.
You need to be aware of:
- the signs and symptoms of HPAI
- how it spreads
- how to prepare your property or site
- how we prevent and prepare for HPAI.
Report a concern
Report any suspected outbreaks. See how to report a concern.