New Zealand says it's "well prepared to respond" if bird flu reaches our shores, after the deadly H5N1 strain was found in a migratory seabird in Western Australia this week — bringing the virus to every continent on the planet.
The brown skua bird was found on a remote beach about 700km south-east of Perth last Sunday, and was isolated before dying that night. Initial tests on a second bird, a giant northern petrel found in the same area on Thursday, also returned a suspected positive result.
Australian Agriculture Minister Julie Collins said there was no evidence of mass deaths or infection in any poultry at this time.
Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard said New Zealand's geographical isolation had protected us and given agencies time to prepare.
"The Ministry for Primary Industries, the Department of Conservation, the Ministry of Health, and Health New Zealand have been working together with industry and local councils to get ready."
Hoggard said the Government was watching the situation closely and remained in close contact with Australian authorities.
"It is a timely reminder that it takes all of us to be prepared for the arrival of a virus we can’t control the spread of."
H5N1 bird flu would likely spread in wild bird populations and would be impossible to eradicate, he said.
"It’s important for farmers and backyard bird owners to have good biosecurity practices in place. Look for signs of illness in your birds and contact your vet if concerned, prevent contact between your birds and wild birds, and clean your boots, gear, surfaces and hands often."
Experts had previously told 1News it's a "matter of time" before the strain arrives here, given New Zealand has so far avoided any highly pathogenic avian influenza strain entirely.
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