Arabic version: تأكيد ثماني حالات من إنفلونزا الطيور H5 على الساحل الجنوبي الأقصى لنيو ساوث ويلز

According to ABC News, eight new H5 bird flu detections have been confirmed on the New South Wales far south coast, with cases recorded in Merimbula and Narooma. The detections include three greater crested terns and a giant petrel in Narooma, as well as four greater crested terns in Merimbula.

NSW Environment Minister Penny Sharpe said surveillance would increase across the Far South Coast, with drones to be used over land and water. Speaking in Narooma, she said the number of affected birds remained small but that it was concerning to see more birds impacted.

The NSW government will stop listing individual bird flu cases and adopt an “events” reporting system. An event refers to an investigation that may involve one bird or multiple birds. Before the latest detections, five individual H5 bird flu cases had been reported in NSW, including cases involving greater crested terns and giant petrels at Narooma, Eden, Wentworth and Hawks Nest.

Biosecurity signs have been installed at Spencer Park and Mitchies Jetty in Merimbula, advising people to avoid contact with sick or dead birds and marine animals. Merimbula resident Andrew Dovell, who recently reported a sick bird to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline, said he was “gutted” by the prospect of more birds dying.

Tathra-based ecologist Steve Sass said the highly contagious strain was spreading and could have serious consequences for ecosystems. He noted that greater crested terns are common in coastal areas and that further fatalities could be expected. The public is urged to report sick or dead animals to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.