The NSW Government has commenced a rollout of targeted vaccinations for vulnerable species of birds to help protect them against H5 avian influenza (bird flu).
A combination of insurance populations in captivity and wild populations of birds will be vaccinated. This includes the Little Penguins in Manly and Barunguba Montague Island.
Taronga Conservation Society Australia vaccinated the first birds this week, with trial cohorts of Little Penguins, Carnaby's Black Cockatoos and Red-tailed Black Cockatoos among the first species to receive the initial dose of the two-dose vaccine course.
The NSW Government is working with Taronga to vaccinate and monitor wild Little Penguins at Manly Point.
Other wildlife facilities across NSW will join the state's vaccine program, ensuring as many species as possible can be covered.
The vaccine requires two doses, administered three-to-four weeks apart. Birds in trials must remain in a controlled environment while completing their primary vaccination course and for 14 days following the second dose so they can be closely monitored for any adverse effects.
The NSW Government is continuing to work with wildlife organisations and other relevant partners to assess potential vaccination sites and ensure appropriate infrastructure, safety measures, veterinary oversight and other requirements are in place before vaccination commences.
NSW is continuing to learn about how the vaccine performs in native wildlife. The controlled vaccination program will provide an opportunity to closely monitor vaccinated animals and identify any potential adverse effects as further plans to vaccinate are progressed.
Complementing the broader rollout of vaccinations, Taronga is leading a vaccine trial that will provide valuable data on immune responses, vaccine effectiveness and future vaccination strategies in threatened and zoo-managed birds.
NSW is taking a careful, evidence-based approach to vaccination, with animal welfare, safety and the latest scientific and veterinary advice guiding decisions about when we use vaccines.
Vaccination is not a standalone solution or a silver bullet for H5 bird flu. It is one tool within a broader response that includes surveillance, preparedness planning, biosecurity and conservation measures.
NSW continues to strengthen surveillance and preparedness for H5 bird flu and has established preparedness plans for priority wildlife sites across the state.
Bird flu has not been detected in commercial poultry flocks or captive birds anywhere in Australia and the risk to human health remains low.
