Kiama Council is aware of recent detections of H5 bird flu (avian influenza) in wild birds in parts of Australia, including isolated detections on the NSW South Coast.
Council is monitoring the situation and remains in contact with relevant government agencies.
There have been no confirmed cases of H5 bird flu in the Kiama local government area.
The NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is the lead agency responsible for surveillance, monitoring and response activities in New South Wales. Council's role is to support official advice and provide local information if required.
Residents are reminded not to touch sick or dead birds or other wildlife.
If you see multiple sick or dead birds or wildlife:
- Avoid contact and keep pets away
- Record the location and, if safe to do so, take a photo
- Report it to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
While H5 bird flu has been detected in a small number of wild birds in NSW, there has been no evidence of spread to commercial poultry flocks and the risk to human health remains low.
Council encourages residents to stay informed through official government sources and follow any public health or biosecurity advice issued by authorities.
