Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza H5N2 – 7 September 2020
Government and industry are continuing to work to respond to the Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N2) outbreak in Victoria.
Humane destruction and disposal of birds from the two infected premises has been completed, with cleaning and disinfection now underway. No further H5N2 infected premises had been detected.
This response is being conducted by the Victorian Government in accordance with nationally agreed biosecurity response plans and procedures.
The National Management Group met on 7 September 2020 and agreed to continue national cost sharing arrangements for the H5N2 eradication program under the Emergency Animal Disease Response Agreement.
There are no food safety issues identified; properly cooked poultry and eggs are safe to eat.
This is not the highly pathogenic influenza H5N1 strain that has gained worldwide attention — nor is it closely related to that strain. It is in no way related to the current Covid-19 pandemic.
If you notice a number of sick or dead birds, contact the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888. If you discover large numbers of sick or dead wild birds, you also need to report this to the hotline so it can be investigated.