Macedon Ranges Shire Council is advising residents to be vigilant to help protect our shire from H5N1 avian influenza (bird flu). Recently, a case of bird flu was detected in a Greater Crested Tern in Kyneton.
At this stage, only one case has been confirmed within the Macedon Ranges. Council is continuing to monitor the situation closely and is working with Agriculture Victoria, the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) and other agencies to support disease surveillance, community awareness and local response efforts.
Agriculture Victoria advises that the risk to human health remains low. Human infections are rare and the virus is not known to spread easily between people.
Residents are being urged to follow the official AVOID, RECORD, REPORT advice if they encounter sick or dead birds or wildlife.
AVOID
Avoid contact with sick or dead wild birds, wildlife and their environment. Keep children and pets away.
RECORD
Record what you see, including the location and details of the bird or wildlife if it is safe to do so.
REPORT
Report sick or dead wild birds and wildlife through the DEECA Wildlife Disease Report Form or by calling the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
Residents are encouraged to report:
- Clusters of five or more sick or dead wild birds anywhere in Victoria.
- A single sick or dead seabird, waterbird, shorebird or bird of prey.
- Marine mammals such as seals, sea lions or dolphins.
Sick or dead livestock, commercial poultry or pet birds should be reported immediately to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
Mayor Cassy Borthwick said the community has an important role in helping authorities to monitor the situation.
"At this stage, there has been one confirmed case in the Macedon Ranges, Council officers are working closely with Agriculture Victoria and DEECA to stay informed and ensure our community has access to clear and timely information.
"If you come across a sick or dead bird, please don't handle it, follow the official AVOID, RECORD, REPORT advice.
" The risk to human health remains low, reporting suspected cases helps authorities build a clearer picture and respond as needed. "
"Council will continue sharing updates with our community as new information becomes available."
Residents who find a dead bird on their own property should report it through the DEECA Wildlife Disease Report Form or by calling the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
Pet owners are encouraged to prevent pets from interacting with sick or dead birds and seek veterinary advice if they have concerns about exposure.
Poultry owners and producers should monitor birds closely, practise good biosecurity and immediately report any unusual illness or deaths to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline.
Looking after your wellbeing
Council recognises that news about disease outbreaks can be concerning, particularly for residents with livestock, poultry, wildlife interests or those experiencing anxiety about the situation.
Anyone feeling worried or distressed is encouraged to seek support from trusted health professionals or access reliable information through:
Council will continue to provide updates through its website and social media channels.
For the latest information visit Agriculture Victoria's H5 bird flu webpage or report wildlife concerns via the DEECA Wildlife Disease Report Form
