Australia and New Zealand brace for looming bird flu threat

Australia and New Zealand brace for looming bird flu threat

Sub: Sci

Sec: Health

Context:

• Australia and New Zealand are on high alert for the potential arrival of a destructive strain of H5N1 avian influenza, known as clade 2.3.4.4b, which has devastated bird and mammal populations globally since its emergence in 2020.
• To prepare for the impending threat, both countries have intensified biosecurity measures.

About clade 2.3.4.4b:

• Clade 2.3.4.4b is a highly contagious variant of H5N1 virus.
• This strain has resulted in the deaths of hundreds of millions of birds and tens of thousands of mammals, particularly in Asia, Europe, and Africa.
• The virus has recently reached Indonesia and Antarctica, increasing the threat level for Oceania, which remains the last region free from this avian influenza strain.

Increased risk during Spring:

• The risk of the virus entering Australia is particularly pronounced during the spring months in Southern Hemisphere, from September to November, when migratory shore birds are active.

Avian Influenza or Bird Flu:

• Avian influenza (AI) is a highly contagious viral disease affecting several species of food-producing birds (chickens, turkeys, quails, guinea fowl, etc.), as well as pet birds and wild birds.
• Occasionally mammals, including humans, may contract avian influenza.
• H5N1 is a subtype of the avian influenza virus.

Mode of transmission:

• Avian influenza is most often spread by contact between infected and healthy birds, though can also be spread indirectly through contaminated equipment.
• The virus is found in secretions from the nostrils, mouth, and eyes of infected birds as well as their droppings.