Australian authorities have confirmed the presence of the highly contagious H5 bird flu strain in a second state, marking a notable development in the country’s avian health surveillance. The Agriculture Minister, Julie Collins, announced on Wednesday that cases were identified in migratory birds in Western Australia, with a third infection recently detected in South Australia, several hundred kilometers away.

For years, Australia remained the only continental landmass free from the H5 strain, which has caused widespread illness and mortality among poultry and wild birds internationally. The latest detections represent the virus’s first known incursions on Australian soil, raising concerns among officials but prompting cautious reassurance.

“At this stage, there is no evidence of mass mortalities. There is also no evidence of infection in poultry or in our agricultural production system,” Collins told reporters, emphasizing that the risk to human health remains low despite the virus’s presence.

The discovery has led to immediate containment measures. One of Australia’s largest poultry producers has implemented lockdown protocols at its Western Australian farms to prevent potential transmission. Meanwhile, Papua New Guinea temporarily suspended imports of Australian eggs and chicken meat as a precautionary response, though most restrictions have since been lifted following diplomatic discussions.

Collins noted ongoing dialogue with Papua New Guinea aimed at facilitating the restoration of full trade flows. “We have continued to engage constructively with the Papua New Guinea government since their notification of suspension to have these trade restrictions removed,” she said.

Chief government veterinary officer Beth Cookson highlighted that research is ongoing to understand the virus’s spread dynamics. Initial findings indicate that H5 is currently confined to migratory seabirds, without evidence of threat to other vulnerable native bird populations. Regarding the South Australian case, Cookson described the situation as still under active investigation.

The detection of H5 in multiple states underscores the challenges Australia faces amid global incidences of avian influenza. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely to forestall potential impacts on the poultry industry and wildlife conservation while maintaining public health safety.