High Pathogenicity AvianInfluenza (HPAI) is a type of avian influenza that can cause severe signs of illness and possible high mortality rates. Infected birds shed the virus in saliva, nasal secretions and faeces. It has been estimated that one faecal deposit with HPAI could contain enough infective doses to infect up to 10,000 birds.
In recent years, a new, highly virulent strain of HPAI, H5N1, has emerged that has been detected in most continents around the world. As of June, 2024, New Zealand, Australia and the Pacific Island remain the only three countries without it.
This new strain is of concern to the Ministry for Primary Industries as it is has evolved to a greater range of host species and is being spread around the world by migratory birds. It has also spread to around 60 species of mammal. When this occurs it is called ‘spillover’ transmission, and is generally the result of contact with infected birds, their droppings or feed and water that has been contaminated by these wild birds.
Does Australia have HPAI H5N1?
No. The current outbreak in two states of Australia is not the wildlife adapted strain, H5N1.
They are different H7 an H9 strains that emerges in poultry. There is no reason for it to spread to migratory birds, and therefore they are unlikely to bring this strain across the Tasman to New Zealand.
What is the risk of New Zealand getting a case of HPAI H5N1?
The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) has classified the risk as LOW. They are closely monitoring movements of the virus in Antarctica. This does not mean it will not get here, so MPI is working closely with the Egg Producers Federation and the wider poultry industry, to ensure we are best prepared to detect, report, and respond should an incursion occur.
Signs of HPAI to look out for in Layer Flocks:
HPAI Look out for Bird Flu Poster
The most obvious sign is many dead birds within a flock in a short timeframe. Other signs for HPAI in poultry can include:
- lethargy or a reluctance to move,
- reduced appetite,
- droopy head, paralysis, or incoordination (neurological signs),
- darkened or swollen face, comb, or wattle (“cyanosis”) from lack of oxygen,
- coughing, panting, and nasal secretions,
- unexpected drop in egg production,
- bruising or haemorrhages,
- severe diarrhoea,
- a silent or “too quiet” poultry shed.
What to do?
If you see 3 or more sick or dead wild birds in a group, report it immediately to Biosecurity New Zealand’s Exotic Pest and Disease Hotline on 0800 80 99 66. Do not handle the birds!
The Hotline is staffed 24/7. A biosecurity investigator will take your details and an Incursion Investigator will be in touch with you.
Follow any instruction from Biosecurity New Zealand for handling sick or dead birds.
HPAI can only be confirmed through laboratory testing.
For regular biosecurity updates and advice on HPAI visit: www.mpi.govt.nz/HPAI
