The first case of H5N1 avian influenza has been recorded in Tasmania.

The first case of infection has been confirmed in a brown skua, a migratory seabird found in Rocky Cape. At present, no other outbreaks of the virus have been identified in the state. Nevertheless, farmers are expressing concern regarding the potential consequences for livestock operations. For instance, the owner of a poultry enterprise in Shakespeare Hills, which keeps over 4,000 laying hens, emphasizes that if the infection is detected, the mandatory culling of the entire flock would lead to a total loss of income and financial hardship.

To prevent the spread of the virus, farm owners are developing biosecurity plans in advance. Protective measures include restricting visitor access to enclosure areas and moving mobile poultry houses to more compact zones. Experts also strongly advise the public to refrain from contact with wild birds and to report any cases of dead or sick birds to the emergency animal disease hotline.

Due to the threat of the virus spreading, the Royal Agricultural Society of Tasmania has decided to cancel the Royal Hobart Poultry and Pigeon Show, scheduled for August 22. According to Chief Executive Officer Scott Gadd, the event, which expected the arrival of more than 1,000 birds, was cancelled as a precautionary measure, as the risks to exhibitors and their birds are deemed excessively high.

Authorities and professional organizations have tightened control. At the Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, where preparations for the potential arrival of the virus had been underway for three years, zoning protocols were immediately implemented. These measures are aimed at restricting the movement of personnel and equipment between areas of the facility. The sanctuary’s management is focused on continuing the work of the animal rescue service, with volunteers required to strictly adhere to government safety recommendations.