Australian authorities have reported the original case of H5 bird flu in a native seabird. The infected bird was located on a coastal beach in Western Australia. Testing identified the strain as H5N1.
Thirteen detections now have been logged in the country, with fresh cases in South Australia and other coastal sites. The findings have set off alerts across the nation. Officials note the discovery produces a 'devastating new reality' for Australia’s native bird populations and will shape future response measures.