H5 Bird Flu

Bird Flu (H5 Avian Influenza) in Western Australia

 

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) confirmed H5 avian influenza (bird flu) in Western Australia on 20 June 2026.

Plant and Animal Biosecurity emergencies are managed by the State government, with DPIRD acting as the Hazard Management Agency.

What is the City doing?

The City is monitoring the situation and working with DPIRD and other government agencies to prepare for any potential impacts on the local community.

The City will continue to share alerts, warnings or advice issued by the State government regarding this issue.

What is H5 bird flu?

H5 bird flu is a viral disease of birds and is found across the globe. It mainly affects birds, but can also affect other animals and humans on rare occasions. 

There is currently a serious and highly contagious strain called H5N1 that has moved quickly around the world. Until now, Australia remained the only continent free from this strain.

Wild, farmed and pet birds can catch H5 bird flu. Overseas, other animals have been infected by this strain of H5 bird flu. These were mainly marine mammals and bird-eating scavengers, noting cases were detected in other mammals including dairy cattle and cats.

 

A few human infections of the H5 bird flu strain of concern have been reported overseas. Most infected people had close contact with infected animals and contaminated environments. The likelihood of humans becoming infected is very low as current strains of H5 bird flu do not appear to transmit easily to or between humans.

How does it spread?

H5 bird flu spreads between animals via infected droppings, contaminated environments and close contact.

Human infections are rare and typically occur after close contact with infected birds, animals or contaminated environments. If a person is displaying influenza-like symptoms after coming into contact with infected birds, they should seek advice from their doctor.

While the risk to people in Australia is low, it’s still important to avoid contact with sick or dead birds and animals.

What you can do:

• Avoid contact with sick or dead birds and wildlife
• Keep pets away from wildlife and keep dogs on leads in wildlife areas
• Clean footwear, clothing and equipment after visiting reserves, parks or farms
• Poultry and bird owners should prevent contact between wild birds and their birds, and keep feed and water areas clean.

This situation is evolving, to stay up to date, visit Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development - Avian Influenza