Avian influenza community information

Published on 10 September 2020

The Chief Veterinary Officer of Victoria has issued the following message regarding avian influenza

An outbreak of avian influenza has been detected near Lethbridge.  Avian influenza is a highly contagious disease that infects chickens, ducks, geese, turkeys, guinea fowl, quail, pheasants, emus and ostriches.

Avian influenza can be spread between locations by movements of eggs, birds, people, vehicles and equipment between farms and by clothing, footwear, aerosols, water, feed, litter, wild birds, biting insects and vermin.

While controls are in place that restrict the movement of birds, equipment and products within Lethbridge we need to be aware if avian have been purchased from the Golden Plains Shire, Avian influenza might be active.

Signs of the disease can include:

• Sudden death
• Difficulties breathing, such as coughing, sneezing or rasping
• Swelling of the head, purple discolouration of the comb and wattles
• Rapid drop in eating, drinking or egg production
• Ruffled feathers, dopiness, closed eyes
• Diarrhea

More details at: http://emergency.vic.gov.au/respond/#!/warning/14501/moreinfo

If you suspect your birds are sick, you should contact your local vet or call the Emergency Disease Watch Hotline on 1800 675 888