The NSW Government has commenced vaccinating wild Little Penguins at Manly as part of targeted efforts to protect vulnerable native wildlife from H5 avian influenza (bird flu).
Wildlife and veterinary experts have been carefully accessing penguin nests at night to safely capture and vaccinate birds, with each penguin microchipped to support vaccination tracking and ongoing monitoring.
The vaccination program is being delivered with veterinary and keeper guidance from Taronga Conservation Society Australia, with the welfare and safety of the penguins the priority throughout the operation.
The operation is expected to take time, with logistics presenting challenges due to where the penguins nest and the need to minimise disturbance to the colony.
The number of birds vaccinated during the initial stages of the program is expected to be relatively low. Observations suggest breeding may be occurring later than usual this year. Further birds are expected to be identified and vaccinated as nest monitoring continues and more penguins return to accessible nesting areas.
Targeted vaccination trials continue at Taronga Conservation Society Australia, where cohorts of Little Penguins and other species are being closely monitored following their first dose of the vaccine. These trials will generate much-needed safety and efficacy data to strengthen the scientific evidence base for avian influenza vaccination in threatened Australian species.
Vaccination is one tool within a broader NSW response to H5 bird flu, which includes surveillance, preparedness planning, biosecurity and conservation measures.
The NSW Government is taking a careful, evidence-based approach to vaccination, with animal welfare, safety and the latest scientific and veterinary advice guiding decisions about when and where vaccines are used.
The vaccine requires two doses, administered three to four weeks apart, with birds monitored for any adverse effects following each dose. For wild populations, monitoring is undertaken in their natural environment, with birds held only for as long as necessary to administer the vaccine.
The community plays an important role in early detection of H5 bird flu. If you encounter sick or dead wildlife, Avoid, Record, Report - avoid contact, record what you see where it is safe to do so, and report unusual illness or deaths through the online reporting portal
