H5 avian flu detected in elephant seal on Macquarie Island
Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 17 Oct, 09:02 · Archive
H5 avian flu has been detected in a southern elephant seal and kelp gull on Macquarie Island, approximately 1500 km southeast of Tasmania. Samples from both animals tested positive for the deadly strain. This is the first time H5 avian flu has been detected on the island and the first recorded detection in a marine mammal in Tasmania.
Australian Chief Veterinary Officer Beth Cookson said there was no evidence of mammal-to-mammal transmission of H5 bird flu in Australia and the risk to humans remained low. She noted that there had been no detections in Australian poultry or agricultural production systems. Macquarie Island is administered as part of Tasmania and the results will be recorded as part of Tasmania's H5 bird flu reporting.
Scientists fear a significant mortality event is likely on the island during this year's breeding season. Elephant seals are highly susceptible to H5 bird flu, with a 90 per cent mortality rate observed in pups on other sub-Antarctic Australian territories at Heard Island and McDonald Island. In response, dozens of workers stationed on Macquarie Island are being evacuated this spring. Australia's icebreaking research and supply vessel, RSV Nuyina, is travelling to the island to conduct the evacuation.
How it is being reported
- Macquarie Island elephant seal tests positive to deadly H5 avian fluWildlife on one of Australia’s most remote conservation areas have tested positive to a deadly strain of bird flu.The West Australian · 17 Oct, 08:38
- Macquarie Island elephant seal tests positive to deadly H5 avian fluWildlife on one of Australia’s most remote conservation areas have tested positive to a deadly strain of bird flu.Perth Now · 17 Oct, 08:38
In this story: Macquarie Island · Tasmania · Beth Cookson · Guy Barnett · Heard Island · McDonald Island · RSV Nuyina
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