Australia’s Bird Flu Case Likely Originated in India, WHO Says

Australia’s Bird Flu Case Likely Originated in India, WHO Says

Keywords: bird flu, Australia, India, WHO

The World Health Organization (WHO) has stated that the recent outbreak of bird flu in Australia likely originated in India. The virus strain, H5N1, is highly pathogenic and has been responsible for severe outbreaks in poultry and wild birds around the world.

The WHO’s statement is based on genetic analysis of the virus samples from the affected Australian farms. The genetic profile of the virus matches that of a strain that has been circulating in India since 2020.

The Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) has confirmed that the bird flu outbreak has now affected over 200,000 birds in commercial poultry flocks. The affected areas include South Australia, New South Wales, and Victoria.

The DAFF is working to contain the outbreak and prevent its further spread. Biosecurity measures have been implemented, including movement restrictions for poultry and the culling of infected birds.

The virus has not been found in humans in Australia or elsewhere in the region. However, the WHO warns that the H5N1 virus can be transmitted from birds to humans, particularly through close and prolonged contact with infected poultry or their droppings.

The WHO recommends that people avoid contact with sick or dead birds and seek medical attention if they experience any symptoms of bird flu, such as fever, cough, and muscle aches.

The bird flu outbreak in Australia is a reminder of the need for increased surveillance and biosecurity measures to prevent and control the spread of animal diseases.