New Zealand has recorded no further detections of the H5 strain of avian influenza, with authorities confirming there is still no evidence the virus is spreading among wild birds or poultry.
The update follows the recent detection of H5 bird flu in a single ocean-going seabird found on Petone Beach. Specialist investigators have since completed further inspections of the area and found no additional cases of concern.
Officials say it is not unusual to find individual dead seabirds along New Zealand’s coastlines during winter, with storms, rough seas and natural causes contributing to bird deaths at this time of year.
To date, New Zealand has recorded only one coastal detection in a wild seabird, with no evidence of mass mortality events in wildlife or transmission between wild birds. Authorities have also confirmed there have been no detections of the virus in commercial poultry.
The Ministry for Primary Industries says New Zealand’s surveillance system remains active and includes monitoring through wildlife sanctuaries, zoos, veterinarians, the poultry industry and reports from members of the public.
Over the past 12 months, surveillance programmes have tested more than 2,500 wild birds and 12,500 commercial poultry, providing ongoing monitoring for any signs of the disease.
While the current risk remains low, authorities are continuing to urge the public to remain vigilant.
People are asked to report three or more sick or dead wild birds found together by calling the Exotic Pest and Disease Hotline on 0800 80 99 66 or by lodging a report online through the Ministry for Primary Industries website.
Members of the public are advised not to handle or move dead or sick birds. Instead, they should record as much information as possible, including the bird species if known, the number of birds affected, the exact location and photographs or video where it is safe to do so.
Officials say continued public reporting is an important part of New Zealand’s biosecurity system and helps ensure any future detections are identified and managed quickly.
New Zealand remains on alert for avian influenza as the virus continues to circulate internationally, with preparedness and early detection considered critical to protecting native wildlife, the poultry industry and public confidence.
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