Bird flu (avian influenza H7N8) has been detected in backyard chickens at a residential property in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), marking the second occurrence of the virus in the region. Environment Minister Rebecca Vassarotti confirmed that this property falls within the quarantine zone established after the initial case was reported on June 27 at a commercial farm. While the detection is disappointing, it was anticipated given the highly contagious nature of the virus.
The first outbreak in the ACT was linked to recent infections at two farms in Sydney’s Hawkesbury region. In Victoria, another strain of bird flu has been identified at eight poultry farms. Vassarotti praised the residents for their prompt action in trying to contain the outbreak and stressed the importance of biosecurity measures among bird owners.
She encouraged residents in the quarantine area to remain vigilant for signs of the disease and suggested practical steps to minimise the risk of transmission, such as keeping wild birds away from domestic ones and maintaining cleanliness around chicken coops. Vassarotti reinforced that managing biosecurity is a shared responsibility and vital for protecting both pet birds and local wildlife.