Avian influenza (bird flu)

Infected animals shed the virus in their faeces (poo) and secretions, which can contaminate their surrounding environment.

The main way that humans might be exposed to bird flu is through direct contact with infected animals, or surfaces and objects contaminated by their faeces (poo).

People may be at risk of bird flu if they come into close contact with infected birds or other animals, or contaminated material. The risk is much greater if the animals are sick.

For people working or volunteering in roles where direct contact with sick or dead birds is likely, they should follow biosecurity guidance, workplace safety procedures and use appropriate personal protective equipment.

The best way to protect against bird flu is to stay away from sick or dead birds and wildlife and their faeces/waste, body fluids, feathers and eggs.

Other simple measures to prevent bird flu include:

• routinely washing your hands before and after handling any bird or wildlife
• not allowing pets to touch or eat sick and dead birds or wildlife
• thoroughly cooking meat and eggs before eating.

When traveling overseas, avoid visiting live bird/animal markets, commercial poultry farms, or touching wild animals. Do not consume raw (unpasteurised) milk.

More advice is available if you are a bird owner.

Bird flu rarely spreads to people.

Symptoms can range from mild to severe, and some people may have no symptoms at all. Symptoms usually appear 2 to 10 days after exposure, and can include:

• fever
• cough
• sore throat
• runny nose
• conjunctivitis
• muscle aches and pains
• headache
• fatigue
• gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea (less common).

Very rarely, H5 bird flu can spread from birds or other animals to humans by:

• direct contact with infected birds or other animals, their feathers or their fluids, saliva or faeces (droppings)
• breathing in the virus particles
• contact with surfaces or materials contaminated with droplets or dust that contain virus.

If you have been in contact with a sick or dead animal or contaminated environments, monitor for symptoms for 10 days.

If you remain well, you can continue to undertake your usual activities.

If you develop symptoms, call a GP or your usual health care provider for advice. Let them know about your exposure.

If you develop symptoms , call a GP or your usual health care provider for advice. Let them know about your exposure.

A GP can help you access testing and provide advice on managing symptoms and protecting others. People can be tested for avian influenza and common respiratory viruses at the same time. Rapid antigen tests (RATs) are not recommended to test for avian influenza.

While you are unwell, stay at home until your symptoms have improved and you’re feeling much better. Wear a mask if you need to leave home.

Practise good hand and respiratory hygiene. This includes:

• covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing
• washing your hands often (or use hand sanitiser)
• disposing of used tissues properly
• wearing a mask if you have symptoms and cannot isolate from other people.

In a medical emergency, always seek immediate health care or call Triple Zero (000). Tell them you may have been exposed to bird flu.

There is no specific vaccine for bird flu in humans.

A seasonal influenza vaccination every year is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and older. While influenza vaccine does not protect against bird flu, it can lower the risk of getting seasonal influenza and bird flu at the same time.

Bird flu is not a food safety concern. It is safe to eat properly handled and cooked poultry meat, eggs, and egg products.

Situations involving disease in animals can be distressing, particularly for people who care for animals or have strong connections to nature and wildlife.

It’s natural to experience a range of emotions including stress, fear and anxiety.

Looking after your wellbeing is an important part of responding to challenging situations.

Staying connected with your community and using trusted sources of information can help. Be mindful of spending too much time reading or watching distressing news and social media content.

Support is available from:

• A trusted health professional
• Your workplace Employee Assistance Program, if available
• Medicare Mental Health – find a local clinic or call 1800 595 212
• Access Mental Health – call 1800 629 354 or 6205 1065
• Lifeline – chat online or call 13 11 14
• Suicide Callback Service – call 1300 659 467
• Beyond Blue - call 1300 224 636
• Kids Helpline – (young people aged 5–25 years) can webchat or call 1800 551 800
• The Black Dog Institute – find resources and support information for first responders and licenced wildlife carers.

If someone is at immediate risk of harm, call Triple Zero (000).

For 24-hour crisis support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 44.

Read Getting help for your mental health for more information.