Manly’s Little Penguin population will receive vaccinations and be monitored under the program to combat bird flu. Photo: NSW Government.
Vulnerable bird species will soon benefit from a NSW Government plan to roll out targeted vaccinations to help protect them from H5 Avian Influenza.
Both wild populations and “insurance” populations in captivity will be vaccinated. These include the Manly and Barunguba populations of Little Penguins.
Taronga Conservation Society Australia has already vaccinated its first birds, with trial cohorts of Carnaby’s Black Cockatoos, Little Penguins and Red-tailed Black Cockatoos among the species to receive initial doses of the two-dose course.
“The unfortunate reality is that H5 bird flu is a significant threat to our native bird populations,” NSW Premier Chris Minns said.
“While no government can stop the virus from spreading, vaccination programs like this one rolling out at Taronga Zoo are part of our efforts to help protect some of Australia’s most beloved native birds.”
Once the Manly Point Little Penguin population is vaccinated, it will be monitored.
Other wildlife facilities will take part in the vaccination program to ensure the health of species throughout NSW.
Under the immunisation course, two doses are administered three to four weeks apart, with birds in trials remaining in a controlled environment while completing their primary vaccination course. Birds are then monitored for 14 days following the second dose so negative effects can be identified.
The NSW Government is working with wildlife organisations and other relevant groups to assess vaccination sites and ensure the appropriate infrastructure, safety, oversight and other requirements are met.
The program also provides an opportunity to closely examine vaccinated animals and identify any potentially negative side effects.
Leading the vaccine trial is NSW’s own Taronga, providing invaluable data on effectiveness, future strategies and immune responses.
The government has emphasised that vaccination is not a standalone strategy for H5, but rather a tool within a broader response that includes biosecurity, surveillance, conservation and preparedness planning.
Bird flu has not been found in commercial poultry flocks or captive birds anywhere in the country, and the risk to human health is low.
Minister for Agriculture, Regional NSW and Western NSW Tara Moriarty said: “We know this disease presents risks for native wildlife and poultry producers, which is why we have been planning for some time with our best veterinary and scientific advisers, plus working closely with industry and wildlife groups.”
Members of the public are encouraged to take note of sick birds or marine mammals, avoid contact, record what they see and report it to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
Original Article published by John Murtagh on PS News.
