Fourth Victorian poultry farm detects avian influenza as chief vet officer says new case ‘not unexpected’

Bird flu has been detected at a fourth Victorian poultry farm, agricultural authorities have revealed.

Agriculture Victoria confirmed the high pathogenicity H7N3 strain of avian influenza was detected on Wednesday at a property in the Golden Plains Shire, in the central-western part of the state.

A spokesman confirmed it was within the current 5km restricted area.

The farm has been placed into quarantine and Agriculture Victoria staff are working to further restrict the spread.

“All poultry will be safely disposed of under veterinary supervision, consistent with national policies and the sites will be cleaned and cleared of the infection,” Agriculture Victoria said in a statement.

It follows the highly-contagious flu being detected in three farms near Meredith and one near Terang – all of which have high pathogenicity of two strains of the virus.

Victoria’s chief veterinary officer Graeme Cooke said the new detection was not unexpected.

“Avian influenza is a viral disease of birds found globally, many species of wild birds, including waterfowl and seabirds can carry the virus but usually show no signs of disease,” Dr Cooke said.

“We remind bird owners that housing birds, where practical, is an effective method of minimising direct contact with wild birds.”

Avian influenza is a highly-contagious viral infection in birds, which can cause severe symptoms and even death in poultry.

However, authorities say consumers should not be concerned about eggs or poultry products in supermarkets as they do not pose a risk to human safety and can be safely consumed.

There are mild strains of the flu that result in few or no symptoms and can go undetected, while other mild strains can evolve into severe strains.

The current outbreaks have resulted in the properties where the virus was detected being quarantined, along with a restricted zone being put in place.

Officials have also issued a “housing” requirement for all birds within the areas.

This means that all poultry farmers, backyard flock and bird owners are required to house or keep their birds in enclosed cages or sheds as much as possible.