Government targets vulnerable species in captivity for H5N1 bird flu vaccines
The Australian government is launching a vaccination program for captive native bird species to combat the spread of H5N1 bird flu. Officials noted that vaccinating wild bird populations is not feasible due to the two-dose requirement.
Why it matters
This represents a strategic public health and conservation effort to protect biodiversity from an escalating avian influenza outbreak.
Agriculture Minister Julie Collins says the vaccination rollout will be guided by scientific advice. ( ABC News: Matt Roberts )
The government will roll out a vaccine against the deadly H5N1 bird flu in priority for native species in captivity.
Australia has so far recorded 230 cases of the disease and saw its first mass mortality event involving Australian wildlife last week.
The exact species to be targeted for vaccination will be up to each state or territory jurisdiction. Wild birds are not prioritised because two vaccine doses are required.
Link copied Share Share article A vaccine will be rolled out to protect Australia's native species in captivity from the deadly H5N1 bird flu.
Australia's bird flu situation is continuing to escalate, with more than 230 confirmed cases and the first mass mortality event involving Australian wildlife recorded last week .
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in