H5N1 Bird Flu

The Dunedin City Council is preparing for the arrival of High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza H5N1.

H5 bird flu is a viral disease that primarily affects birds, but can affect marine mammals, companion animals and livestock.

New Zealand is well-prepared to respond quickly to H5 bird flu. MPI and Health NZ are leading the national One Health response, supported by DOC and regional and local authorities.

There have been two positive cases of H5 bird flu in New Zealand: A single brown skua seabird found at Petone Beach, and a Kahu, swamp harrier hawk found near Carterton.

There’s been no further detection outside of these two cases, but it’s vital for everyone to continue to be aware of what to look for.

There is no food safety risk from H5N1, and the risk to human health is remains low.

What can people do?

Dunedin and the surrounding environment are home to native birds and marine mammals, so vigilance to protect wildlife and farming community is important.

If you see three or more sick or dead birds in the same area:

• Do not touch or move them.
• Report the sighting to the MPI Exotic Pest and Disease Hotline on 0800 80 99 66. or go online at report.mpi.govt.nz. If you report online, select the "dead or dying wild birds" option from the dropdown list and then the type of bird you have found.
• Provide as much information as possible, including the location, photographs, species (if known), and any visible symptoms.
• Keep children, dogs and other pets away from dead or sick birds.

How to report suspected bird flu (printable sheet)

Find out more about bird flu: Ministry for Primary Industries