Avian Influenza, also known as bird flu, has been detected in poultry and birds in the Hawkesbury.
Importantly, the strain detected in NSW and the ACT (H7N8) is NOT the H5N1 strain that is causing global concern, nor is it connected to the Victorian outbreak.
Because the disease is primarily spread via the movement of infected domestic and wild birds, Emergency Control Zones have been placed around the Hawkesbury region to restrict the movement of birds and bird products.
Two zones have been established in the immediate vicinity of the detections. A Restricted Emergency Zone (REZ) has been set up in the immediate two (2) kilometre perimeter surrounding the affected properties and a Control Emergency Zone (CEZ) has been established in the surrounding area beyond the REZ.
These restrictions are designed to limit the spread of the disease. Living in these zones means you are prohibited from moving your birds.
In some instances movements may be allowed if a Permit is granted prior.
Visit the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development website at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/ai to learn more about movement restrictions and permits and to view the interactive Emergency Zone Map to determine what zone you're in.
Remember to immediately report any signs of Avian Influenza in your birds by calling the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
What does avian influenza look like?
Signs of Avian Influenza in pet birds are not always immediately obvious, but can include:
- Decreased feed and water intake
- Decreased egg production
- Sad looking, depressed and ruffled feathers
- Difficulty breathing, coughing, sneezing
- Diarrhoea
- Nervous sign
In addition to the above, poultry can also display:
- Swollen heads, conjunctivitis, nasal secretions, and
- Swollen and/or discoloured combs, wattles and legs
Sadly, in some cases birds may suddenly die.
Fortunately, there are some precautions you can take to protect your birds.
- Restrict contact between your birds and wild birds wherever you can
- If you reside in an Emergency Zone, where possible, house your pet birds indoors to minimise any potential contact with wild birds.
- Always wash your hands before and after handling birds
- Provide feed and water in the poultry shed or use equipment that restricts wild bird access
- Keep your poultry sheds, yards, aviaries and equipment clean
- Only buy healthy birds from reputable suppliers and always quarantine new birds before introducing them to the resident flock
- Keeping good records of bird movements or sales
