Member for Myall Lakes Tanya Thompson is urging the Forster-Tuncurry community
to remain vigilant following confirmation of a H5 bird flu event in Forster.
The NSW Government has confirmed that samples taken from a Greater Crested
Tern in Forster were among eight new H5 bird flu events detected across NSW.
The latest detections bring the NSW total to 40 H5 bird flu events, with surveillance
continuing across the state.
Mrs Thompson said while the detection was understandably concerning for the local
community, people should follow the official advice and avoid handling sick or dead
wildlife.
“Many of us spend a great deal of time around our beautiful beaches, lakes and
waterways, so it’s important that the Forster-Tuncurry community knows what to look
out for and what to do if they come across a sick or dead bird,” Mrs Thompson said.
“The advice is very clear – avoid contact, record what you see and report it.
“Please don’t pick up or handle a sick or dead bird. Keep children and pets away and
report the sighting so the appropriate authorities can respond.”
The NSW Government advises that the risk to human health remains low, and bird
flu has not been detected in commercial poultry flocks or captive birds in NSW.
Most detections have occurred in species of terns, which commonly gather in large
groups along the NSW coastline.
Mrs Thompson said the Forster detection also made it important for local pet owners
and residents with backyard chickens or other birds to take sensible precautions.
“Residents with backyard chickens and pet birds should also keep their enclosures
clean, keep feed and water away from wild birds and, wherever possible, prevent
contact between their birds and wildlife.
“Forster-Tuncurry is surrounded by waterways and an extraordinary natural
environment. We all have a role to play in protecting our native wildlife, our pets and
our local bird populations.
“There is no need for panic, but there is every reason to be aware and take the
precautions being recommended by authorities.”
Anyone who sees sick or dead wild birds, domestic birds, marine mammals or other
wildlife showing signs of H5 bird flu should:
AVOID contact with the animal.
RECORD what you see from a safe distance.
REPORT it through the NSW Government reporting system or call the Emergency
Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
Mrs Thompson encouraged residents to continue enjoying Forster’s beaches,
foreshores and waterways while following the advice of biosecurity and wildlife
authorities.
“This is about being informed, taking sensible precautions and reporting anything
unusual so authorities can respond quickly.”
