The H5 strain of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) has arrived in Australia, confirmed is several cases of wild migratory birds. Until June 2026, Australia was free of this disease. Fortunately there are plenty of resources to learn about HPAI H5 strain. All vets registered in South Australia will have received links to multiple resources, published by PIRSA, and there is public material available to download as well. SAVEM leadership strongly encourages all SAVEM volunteers to familiarise themselves with this information.
The SAVEM Coordinator has been contacted by Biosecurity SA at PIRSA, and has discussed SAVEM’s possible role in a bird flu response, this year and in years to come. At this stage all we need to know is the likely availability and willingness of SAVEM veterinarians to take part in a bird flu response if requested, and to this end an email has been sent to all SAVEM vets. Please respond promptly.
In South Australia, the “go-to” website for information and resources is birdflu.sa.gov.au
Please check that website frequently to stay up to date with the current situation, and use the resources below.
Fact-sheet-home-poultry-and-captive-birds
Poster-multiple-sick-or-dead-birds
Know-your-risks-poster-for-backyarders-and-pet-owners
PLEASE SAVE THE EMERGENCY ANIMAL DISEASE PHONE NUMBER 1800 675 888 IN YOUR PHONES