A second bird has tested positive for the H5N1 strain of bird flu in Western Australia on Monday, prompting renewed warnings that New Zealand must prepare for the virus's arrival.
Otago University evolutionary virologist Jemma Geoghegan warned that New Zealand cannot be complacent about H5N1, saying native seabirds and other threatened species may be at risk when the virus reaches the country.
The strain has led to widespread deaths among wild bird populations and marine mammals in overseas jurisdictions. "We've seen internationally that H5N1 has caused major mortality events in wild birds and marine mammals, and many of our native sea birds and other threatened species could be vulnerable when the virus comes here," Geoghegan said.
People who encounter unwell birds should contact the Ministry for Primary Industries rather than approaching them. Warning signs include birds appearing unlike their usual self, dehydration or poor movement. Humans can contract H5N1 through direct contact with infected animals.
"While this is not a human disease, humans have been able to be infected by the virus through direct contact with infected animals, so, it's best not to approach them and call the MPI hotline," Geoghegan said.
Geoghegan said the risk to the general public remains low at this stage but New Zealand needs preparation for the global threat. A different strain of bird flu emerged at an Otago chicken farm in December 2024, prompting rapid testing and genomic sequencing to track the virus.