BIRD FLU — VIDEO & FACT SHEET What does Bird Flu mean for your birds and your property?

Presented by Dr Sara Bailey, Veterinarian
Facilitated by Josh Puglisi

This fact sheet accompanies the Bird Flu Workshop & Webinar:

https://vimeo.com/1218863064?share=copy&fl=sv&fe=ci

This was held on Saturday 15 August 2026. The session provided practical information to help local residents understand bird flu, reduce risks and prepare for possible changes in the situation.

What is Bird Flu?

Bird flu, or avian influenza, is a viral disease that primarily affects birds. H5 bird flu is of particular concern because some strains can cause serious disease and death in domestic poultry and wild birds. The disease situation can change, so it is important to stay informed and follow current advice from relevant authorities.

How can Bird Flu spread?

Wild birds can play an important role in the spread of avian influenza. The virus can potentially move between wild birds and domestic poultry through direct contact or through contaminated:

• Bird droppings and other material

• Feed and water

• Equipment and footwear

• Clothing and hands

• Areas where wild birds and poultry mix

Reducing unnecessary contact between wild birds and domestic poultry is an important part of biosecurity.

Protecting your birds — practical biosecurity

Consider the risks around your own property and take reasonable steps to reduce them. Think about:

• Keeping poultry away from areas where wild birds regularly gather.

• Protecting feed and water from contamination.

• Cleaning equipment, footwear and housing regularly.

• Limiting visitors and unnecessary movement between poultry areas.

• Watching your birds closely for signs of illness.

• Having a plan for what you will do if a bird becomes sick.

There is no single solution for every property. The aim is to identify the risks that apply to your birds and your situation and take practical steps to reduce them.

What if you find sick or dead birds?

Avoid unnecessary contact with sick or dead wild birds. Do not handle birds unless you have been advised to do so by the appropriate authorities. If you are concerned about unusual bird deaths, sick poultry or possible avian influenza, seek advice through the appropriate animal health authorities or your local veterinarian.

Protecting local wildlife

Wild birds are an important part of our environment and may be affected by avian influenza. If you encounter sick or dead wild birds, do not disturb or handle them unnecessarily. Record the location and seek advice about reporting and safe handling.

What should I do if I am concerned?

If you notice unusual illness or deaths among your poultry or local birds, contact your local veterinarian or the relevant animal health authority for current advice. Bird flu advice and response arrangements may change as the situation develops, so always check the latest official information.

Make a Bird Biosecurity Plan for Your Property

A useful approach is to work through four simple questions:

What are the risks on my property?
↓
What can I realistically change?
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What measures could reduce my risk?
↓
What will I do if the situation changes?

The aim is not to panic or eliminate every possible risk. It is to understand your situation, prepare in advance and know what action you will take if circumstances change.

Key message

Stay informed. Reduce contact between domestic poultry and wild birds. Practise good biosecurity. Have a plan.

This information is intended as general community preparedness guidance. Bird flu advice and recommendations may change as the situation develops. Always follow current advice from relevant veterinary and government authorities.