Australia will begin vaccinating captive native birds against H5 bird flu in the coming days, targeting endangered species in zoos and conservation breeding programs as the outbreak spreads to new species and regions.
Agriculture Minister Julie Collins said the government holds about 1,500 vials of vaccine worth AU$2 million and could not stop the outbreak but would focus on priority species most vulnerable to the virus, including the orange-bellied parrot and regent honeyeater. Environment Minister Murray Watt said each bird requires two doses, making wild vaccination impractical. Chief Veterinary Officer Beth Cookson said the rollout followed 18 months of safety and efficacy trials.
Since Australia's first H5 case was detected in June, authorities have logged more than 230 confirmed or suspected infections. Last week brought the first mass wildlife mortality event, killing dozens of greater crested terns off South Australia. No cases have been found in poultry or agricultural production.