Avian influenza (AI): Questions and answers
The clinical signs are extremely variable depending on many factors such as the type of bird, the virus subtype and the presence of other diseases. Infected birds may die shortly after acquiring the infection with no obvious signs or they may show a variety of symptoms including;
- respiratory signs of coughing, sneezing or rasping breathing
- rapid drop in feed intake, water intake and egg production
- typical “sick bird” signs – ruffled feathers, depression, closed eyes
- Nervous signs like tremors of the head, unsteady gait, twisted necks and other unusual positions of the head and body sometimes occur.
These clinical signs are not specific to avian influenza and can be seen in other poultry diseases.
Avian influenza (AI) can be spread by movements of infected birds (domestic or wild), through droppings and secretions of infected birds directly or through movement of contaminated objects, clothing or vehicles. Windborne spread from infected large flocks is also possible over short distances. Other animals like cats and dogs can also spread the AI virus if they come in direct contact with contaminated materials or infected birds.
Most AI viruses cause only mild disease in poultry and are called low pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI) viruses.
Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) viruses can develop from certain LPAI viruses, usually while they are circulating in poultry flocks. HPAI viruses can kill up to 90-100% of the flock, and cause epidemics that may spread rapidly, devastate the poultry industry, and result in severe trade restrictions.
The strain detected in NSW is HPAI H7N8. It is not the same as the H5N1 strain that is impacting domestic and wild animals and causing concern globally. The NSW cases are not connected to the H7N3 and H7N9 strains of HPAI in the Victorian outbreak.
Yes. There have been a number of outbreaks of avian influenza in domestic poultry since 1976 in Victoria, Queensland and NSW. The most recent outbreak in NSW was in Young in 2013. All outbreaks were contained and successfully eradicated.
The level of biosecurity has been upgraded on commercial poultry farms in NSW to minimise the risk of exposure to risk factors like wild birds, contaminated water supplies, other animals and visitors. The poultry industry in NSW has been closely cooperating with NSW DPI to develop early reporting systems for unusual mortalities. NSW has extensive animal disease surveillance programs that ensure early detection of diseases. A network of private veterinarians, district veterinarians and diagnostic laboratories across NSW enable early diagnosis and effective response if an outbreak occurs.
No. The control of avian influenza in wild birds is not feasible. Low pathogenicity avian influenza naturally cycles through wild bird populations with little impact. It is important to prevent outbreaks in commercial poultry farms because this is where the virus can mutate to become the high pathogenicity form of the virus. It is essential to minimise possible contacts between domestic and wild birds to prevent viral introduction.
No. Poultry products (meat and eggs) that have been properly cooked are safe for human consumption as the cooking process destroys the avian influenza virus. Nevertheless, it is prudent for consumers to take normal food safety precautions when preparing and cooking poultry products.
Further information on food safety is available at the NSW Food Authority.
The majority of birds are susceptible to avian influenza and pet birds are no exception. All bird owners are encouraged to be aware of the signs of avian influenza and to report all unusual signs of disease or death to their veterinarian, or the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
Basic biosecurity steps will minimise the risk of avian influenza as well as other diseases. Health monitoring and sound husbandry practices assist in early detection of any flock problems. Purchase birds from reputable sources. Where possible, minimise contact between domestic and wild birds or other animals. Minimise non-essential visitors contact with domestic and aviary birds. Keep new flock introductions separately for 2-3 weeks after arrival. Water supply in most backyard or aviary flocks is chlorinated town water. Water from a dam, river or creek should be chlorinated to make it safe to drink.
Avian influenza information for pet bird owners
High pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) is a serious, highly contagious disease of birds. It is notifiable in Australia, meaning any suspected cases need to be reported immediately.
HPAI can affect wild and pet birds including, but not limited to, budgerigars, parrots and other pet birds.
What are the signs of HPAI in birds?
The clinical signs are extremely variable depending on many factors such as the type of bird, the virus subtype and the presence of other diseases.
Look for typical “sick bird” symptoms in your pet birds, such as ruffled feathers, depression, and closed eyes.
A rapid drop of feed and water intake, or respiratory signs such as coughing, sneezing, or rasping breathing are also signs of HPAI.
What do I do if I suspect HPAI in my pet bird?
Avian influenza is a notifiable disease in NSW. If you notice symptoms consistent with HPAI, you must report it.
You can notify by phoning:
- your private veterinarian
- the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888 (monitored 24 hours a day, 7 days a week)
- or your Local Land Services District Veterinarian on 1300 795 299 (business hours).
If your pet bird is showing symptoms and must be handled, precautions should be taken. Wear personal protective equipment such as a facemask, eye protection, gloves, and coveralls.
Can I take my bird out of my home?
If you reside in an emergency zone, your bird must remain on your property. You may only move a bird because it needs urgent veterinary treatment, and that treatment cannot be provided at the origin premises.
Where possible, house your pet birds indoors to minimise any potential contact with wild birds.
HPAI can be spread by infected birds, by contaminated feed, bedding, manure, and on equipment, including boots.
Wash your hands before and after handling your birds and secure your feed and bedding to avoid wild bird contamination.
What do I do if I have to take my pet bird to the vet?
First, check if you are in an emergency zone as you may need a permit. Enter your address using the map to find out.
If you reside in an emergency zone and you are concerned about the health of your pet birds, first, call the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888 (monitored 24 hours a day, 7 days a week).
Then call your local veterinary clinic to advise of the issue and confirm that they will provide treatment for your bird.
When taking your bird to the vet, you must adhere to the conditions outlined in the Group Biosecurity Emergency Permit (movement of birds for veterinary treatment).
Movements to seek urgent veterinary care within the Restricted and Control Emergency Zones in NSW
If you need to seek urgent veterinary care for your bird within the Restricted and Control Emergency Zones of NSW there is a group permit in place to allow this to happen. This applies to any movements to a vet that only involve an origin, destination, and movement in NSW.
For movements to a vet that don’t meet these conditions and involve either an origin, destination or movement through the ACT, the group permit does not apply. Please see the ACT website for details related to movement restrictions in this area.
How do I protect my pet birds?
Even if you only keep a few chickens in your backyard or you own a pet bird, you need biosecurity practices in place to protect your birds from disease.
- Restrict contact between your birds and wild birds wherever you can.
- Always wash your hands before and after handling birds.
- Provide feed and water in the poultry shed or use equipment that restricts wild bird access.
- Provide domestic (chlorinated) water as the only water source.
- Keep your poultry sheds, yards and aviaries, and equipment clean.
- Only buy healthy birds from reputable suppliers and always quarantine new birds before introducing them to the resident flock.
- Limit any visitors to your birds, and check if essential visitors have recently visited other premises where poultry are kept.
- Change into clean footwear before entering poultry houses or hen facilities, to stop the potential transfer of disease from outside.
- Keeping good records of bird movements or sales.
- Record and report unusual signs of disease.
Can the virus spread to people? How can I protect myself?
Transmission of avian influenza to humans is rare. There is a very low risk of people becoming infected with avian influenza viruses through normal contact with healthy birds.
You may be at higher risk if you have had contact with birds that are infected with avian influenza, or their secretions (saliva, blood and faeces).
When handling sick birds or carcasses, wear appropriate personal protective equipment to reduce your risk of getting avian influenza. This includes a P2/N95 mask, goggles, gloves and protective clothing.
For more information on HPAI in poultry, visit Avian influenza (nsw.gov.au)
For information on preventing AI in humans, read the NSW Health factsheet.
Bird Show FAQs
Can I attend my local bird show?
Persons considering attending a bird show are advised to consider the proximity of the show to any existing Restricted Emergency Zone (REZ) or Control Emergency Zone (CEZ) before attending.
Bird shows can only be held, and attended, outside of an REZ or CEZ (Outside Area).
Bird shows, exhibitions, displays and auctions are NOT permitted within existing REZs or CEZs.
Visit NSW DPIRD Avian influenza for a map of current NSW Avian Influenza Emergency Zones.
I’ve returned home from a bird show and suspect my bird is ill. What do I do?
Avian influenza is a notifiable disease in NSW.
If you notice signs of disease or death consistent with Avian Influenza, you must report it immediately to your veterinarian, the 24-hour Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888 or Local Land Services on 1300 795 299 (during business hours).
Can I transport birds to and from a show?
Birds and poultry can be freely moved and transported in areas unaffected by Avian Influenza (Outside Area).
Outside Areas, or those areas located outside of designated REZs and CEZs, are considered low-risk for transmission.
Restrictions on movements only apply within designated REZs and CEZs.
Check the interactive map on the NSW DPIRD Avian influenza website to locate your zone.
The NSW DPIRD Explanation Guide (PDF, 2280.92 KB) provides a full list of movement restrictions.
Can I drive my birds through a REZ or CEZ, without stopping, to attend a bird show in a safe zone?
There are no exceptions in the Emergency Order which allow for the movement of birds through the REZ or CEZ even without stopping. People travelling to attend a bird show must either travel outside of the REZ and CEZ to arrive at the relevant destination or apply to the Department for a permit. For more information on movement restrictions and permits please refer to the NSW DPIRD Explanation Guide (PDF, 2280.92 KB).
Do I need to obtain a movement permit?
The NSW DPIRD Explanation Guide (PDF, 2280.92 KB) provides a full list of movement restrictions for all birds, poultry, transport vehicles, avian products and equipment into, within and out of REZs and CEZs.
In cases where a movement is not permitted, exemptions may be provided upon the granting of a movement permit by NSW DPIRD. Each permit application will be subject to a risk assessment by NSW DPIRD and will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Permit requests may take several days to assess and many requests are unsuccessful.
Apply for a movement permit at https://forms.bfs.dpi.nsw.gov.au/forms/22849
What precautions must I take when transporting birds?
Bird and transport operators must maintain strict hygiene practices including ensuring any transport vehicle is thoroughly disinfected prior to and after movement of birds, poultry and by-products.
Visit the NSW DPIRD Explanation Guide (PDF, 2280.92 KB) for a full list of movement restrictions and conditions for birds, poultry and by-products into, within and out of REZs and CEZs.
Can I buy and sell birds at a bird show?
Yes.
Bird sales are allowed as long as the birds are moving from and to a property outside of an REZ or CEZ. However, it is essential to follow biosecurity measures to ensure the health and safety of your birds and prevent the spread of diseases. Here are some tips on how to safely introduce new birds to your property:
- Quarantine New Birds: Keep new birds separately from your existing flock for at least 30 days. This isolation period helps to monitor the new birds for any signs of illness without exposing your current birds to potential pathogens.
- Health Check: Conduct a thorough health check on the new birds. Look for signs of illness such as coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, lethargy, or unusual droppings. Consult a veterinarian if you notice any health concerns.
- Hygiene Practices: Maintain strict hygiene practices during the quarantine period. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling the new birds. Use dedicated equipment for the quarantined birds to avoid cross-contamination.
- Clean and Disinfect: Regularly clean and disinfect the quarantine area. Ensure that feed and water containers are cleaned and disinfected daily to prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria and viruses.
- Monitor and Record: Keep detailed records of the new birds' health status during the quarantine period. Note any changes in behavior, appetite, or appearance, and report any concerns to a veterinarian immediately.
- Gradual Introduction: After the quarantine period, introduce the new birds to your existing flock gradually. Start by allowing them to see each other through a barrier before allowing direct contact. Monitor their interactions closely to prevent aggression and stress.
By following these biosecurity and quarantine measures, you can help ensure the health and well-being of your birds while participating in bird sales at shows.
What precautions should I take if I plan on attending a bird show?
Persons considering attending a bird show are advised to consider the proximity of the show to any existing REZ or CEZ before attending.
If attending a show outside of a REZ or CEZ, bird owners must:
- Keep detailed records of attending birds and their movements. This will help with tracing if there were to be an avian influenza detection.
- Limit the handling of birds where possible.
- Minimise direct contact between birds from different owners.
- Keep birds in their own cages or enclosures and avoid communal areas.
- Maintain a clean and sanitised environment and regularly clean and disinfect the venue, especially high-traffic areas.
- Ensure your birds do not mix directly with other birds at the event.
- Use barriers or covers for your birds' cages to reduce the risk of airborne disease transmission.
- Disinfect your birds' cages, feeders and water containers before and after the show.
- Observe your birds for any signs of illness before, during and after the event.
- Ensure you do not share cages, feeders, bedding or equipment with other bird owners at the show.
- Minimise the amount of time your birds spend at the show to reduce exposure.
How is Avian influenza (AI) transmitted?
Avian influenza (AI) can be spread by movements of infected birds (domestic or wild), through droppings and secretions of infected birds directly or through movement of contaminated objects, clothing or vehicles. Windborne spread from infected large flocks is also possible over short distances.
Other animals like cats and dogs can also spread the AI virus if they come in direct contact with contaminated materials or infected birds (PDF, 2298.98 KB).
Am I at risk of contracting avian influenza by attending a bird show?
Transmission of avian influenza to humans is rare. Most people are not at risk of contracting avian influenza.
You may be at higher risk if you have contact with birds or animals that are infected with avian influenza, or their secretions (saliva, blood and faeces).
Always wash your hands with soap and running water after touching or handling birds, their enclosures, environments, or food containers.
Remember, if any birds are unwell or there are any concerns of bird illness, wear appropriate personal protective equipment to reduce your risk of getting avian influenza. This includes a P2/N95 mask, goggles, gloves and protective clothing.
For more information on preventing avian influenza in humans visit the NSW Health avian influenza factsheet.
Guidance for schools with birds (including poultry)
What do I do if I suspect HPAI in school birds/poultry?
Avian influenza is a notifiable disease in NSW. If you notice symptoms consistent with avian influenza, you must report it. You can notify by phoning: your private veterinarian; the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888 (monitored 24 hours a day, 7 days a week); or your Local Land Services District Veterinarian on 1300 795 299 (business hours).
If live birds or carcasses are suspected to be infected with avian influenza virus, precautions should be taken such as wearing personal protective equipment, including a facemask (P2/N95), eye protection, gloves, and coveralls. If a bird carcass needs to be moved (e.g., for submission for testing, or disposal), an inverted bag should be used to grasp the carcass before placing it in a secure bag and double-bagging it.
What do I do if the school has a sick bird?
If you observe unusual signs of illness or death in your poultry or wild birds, immediately call the Emergency Animal Disease (EAD) Hotline at 1800 675 888, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Next, contact your local veterinary clinic to inform them of the issue and confirm that they will provide treatment for the bird.
What are the clinical signs of AI in birds?
The clinical signs are extremely variable depending on many factors such as the type of bird, the virus subtype and the presence of other diseases.
Infected birds may die shortly after acquiring the infection with no obvious signs or they may show a variety of symptoms including;
- Respiratory signs of coughing, sneezing or rasping breathing
- Rapid drop in feed intake, water intake and egg production
- Typical “sick bird” signs – ruffled feathers, depression, closed eyes
- Nervous signs like tremors of the head, unsteady gait, twisted necks and other unusual positions of the head and body sometimes occur.
- These clinical signs are not specific to avian influenza and can be seen in other poultry diseases.
