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City of Wollongong
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Bird Flu

Bird Flu (Avian Influenza) is an infectious disease affecting poultry, pets and wild birds, mammals and in rare cases, humans.

H5N1 is a highly contagious and deadly strain of avian influenza which has led to extensive loss of domestic and wild birdlife in other parts of the world.​ While this strain has not yet been detected in Australia, it is being closely monitored by authorities due to the risk of spread through migrating seabirds.

The Wollongong Local Government Area covers a large coastline and a vast area of open spaces home to prolific wildlife, including the Black Swan (Cygnus atratus) and endangered Pied Oystercatcher (Haematopus longirostris).

To protect this wildlife, we need everyone to be alert for signs of H5N1 avian influenza and keep pets clear of sick and dead birds.

What should you do if you suspect avian influenza?

  • AVOID contact with sick or dead birds
  • RECORD time, date, and location and other evidence i.e. photos, video.
  • REPORT to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline by phone on 1800 675 888 or online.

Signs of disease usually appear in several or all birds in a flock, including:

  • sudden death
  • lethargy or reluctance to walk, eat or drink
  • droopy appearance or ruffled feathers
  • head or limb swelling
  • bruising of the wattle, comb, feet or skin
  • respiratory signs such as panting, nasal discharge or sneezing
  • diarrhoea
  • unusual head or neck posture, incoordination, inability to walk or stand
  • unusual reduction in egg production.

Each year, many short-tailed shearwaters (also called ‘muttonbirds’) die at sea during their migration along the New South Wales coast. Wind and tides regularly cause these birds to wash up on Wollongong's beaches.  This event is an unfortunate but natural occurrence.

The NSW Government advises residents to leave these birds on the beach. The natural cycle of our beaches will ensure that the birds will not remain on the beaches for an extended period of time.

Around the world, avian influenza infections, particularly of the H5N1 strain, have been detected on a variety of wild and domestic mammals including seals, cattle, cats and dogs.

Tips for preventing infection in dogs and cats are the same as for many other infectious diseases:

  • Keep cats indoors.
  • Keep pets that do go outdoors away from wild birds, poultry, and cattle and their environments.
  • Even at dog-friendly beaches and parks, ensure dogs are always under your control.
  • Prevent pets from contacting or eating dead birds or other animals.