First mammal infected with bird flu in Australia as 'devastating virus' spreads beyond birdlife

Australia has confirmed its first case of bird flu in a mammal, as the lethal virus continues its spread beyond bird populations. A long-nosed fur seal from Beachport in South Australia tested positive for H5 bird flu, authorities announced on Sunday. This marks the first recorded instance of the strain in a mammal within Australia and is presumed to have been acquired from wild birds.

Agriculture Minister Julie Collins described the development as distressing but anticipated, given the virus's tendency to infect other wildlife, particularly marine mammals in regions with high bird infection rates.

Experts warn that once H5 bird flu infiltrates the natural environment, significant losses are inevitable. Jack Gough, CEO of the Invasive Species Council, noted that mammal-to-mammal transmission among seals in South America and Antarctica has resulted in high mortality rates, especially among young seals. The situation is still in its early stages, and the virus's impact is expected to worsen as it continues to spread across the continent and among species.

South Australia has the highest number of confirmed cases, with 182 detections, followed by Victoria with 86, Western Australia with 10, New South Wales with 11, and Tasmania with 9. No cases have been reported in agricultural settings, and the risk to human health remains low. Authorities advise the public to report sick-looking birds to the relevant authorities and refrain from approaching or touching them.

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