The state of Victoria has implemented a mandatory housing order for poultry producers, marking the first time an Australian jurisdiction has enforced such a measure in response to the spread of H5N1 avian influenza. The directive requires anyone keeping more than 50 birds to keep them indoors, expanding on previous voluntary guidelines. This mandate is set to remain in force for an initial period of 14 days.
Agriculture Minister Michaela Settle described the decision as a proactive and precautionary step designed to prevent farmed birds from coming into contact with wildlife that may carry the virus. The move follows new detections of the virus in Yambuk, Apollo Bay, and Clyde, which prompted authorities to escalate their containment efforts.
Australian Chief Veterinary Officer Beth Cookson confirmed on Friday that an additional 20 positive detections have been identified in Victoria, specifically involving greater crested terns in the Portland and Nelson areas. These findings bring the total number of confirmed or presumed positive H5 bird flu detections in Australia to 175, based on tested samples.
Despite the rise in cases among wild birds, authorities emphasized that there have been no detections within the country's poultry or agricultural production systems. Officials further stated that the risk to the general human population remains very low. In light of the ongoing situation, organizers of the Royal Adelaide Show have opted to cancel all bird and poultry exhibits that were scheduled for next month.
Victoria’s Chief Veterinary Officer Graeme Cook noted that the intensification of the response is necessary as the virus continues to emerge in new areas across the state.
