Oceania Prepares for Potential Bird Flu Crisis: A Tightening Web of Biosecurity and Vigilance

Australia and New Zealand increase biosecurity and test shore birds for bird flu as the H5N1 strain, which has impacted Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas, threatens their ecosystems. Officials fear possible mass extinctions of vulnerable species and poultry losses, adopting vaccines and response plans to combat the threat.

Australia and New Zealand are gearing up to confront a potential bird flu crisis by tightening biosecurity at farms and testing shore birds for diseases. With the virus having reached regions including Asia, Europe, and Africa, Oceania remains vigilant against a potential H5N1 invasion.

The potential for the virus to arrive is notably high during the Southern Hemisphere's spring months. Officials express concerns over possible ecosystem threats and the extinction of unique species, heightening concerns with historical losses seen in the United States and South America.

Both countries have intensified preparations, including trial vaccinations for endangered native birds and creating task forces to simulate outbreak scenarios. Strategies focus on limiting interactions between domestic poultry and wild birds to prevent the virus's spread.

(With inputs from agencies.)