'Starting to take off': bird flu mass mortality likely
Environmental authorities are investigating a mass mortality event involving over 80 greater crested terns at Baudin Rock, South Australia, suspected to be caused by bird flu. Experts warn that this could signal the start of a rapid spread of the H5 virus across the region.
Why it matters
The potential outbreak of bird flu in Australian wildlife poses significant risks to biodiversity, agriculture, and, in rare cases, human health.
Bird flu is suspected after 80 dead and sick greater crested terns were found at Baudin Rock, SA. Photo: Andrew Stafford/AAP PHOTOS A mass mortality event, potentially triggered by bird flu, mirrors what's happened as the deadly disease spread overseas, environmental advocates warn.
All articles from our website & app The digital version of Today's Paper Crosswords, Sudoku and Trivia All other regional websites in your area Continue More than 80 dead and sick greater crested terns have been found at an island called Baudin Rock in South Australia.
Authorities say it is likely to be the first mass mortality event from the deadly disease.
Invasive Species Council said Australia was still at the very early stages of the H5 outbreak, but it could spread quickly.
"It seems the virus is starting to take off, mirroring the experience in South America," chief executive Jack Gough said.
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