New Zealand has found its first case of the H5 bird flu virus after a migratory seabird tested positive on Wednesday. The discovery is a major worry for the island nation, which had never seen this dangerous virus before. Globally, the H5 strain has caused severe sickness and killed large numbers of farm and wild birds.
The virus was discovered in a brown skua, a type of ocean bird, found on Petone Beach in the capital city of Wellington. Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard confirmed the positive test and asked the public to monitor local wildlife closely.
However, officials shared some reassuring news, stating that there is currently no proof that the virus is spreading between other wild birds. Andrew Hoggard added that there have been no reports of large groups of wild animals dying, meaning the incident could be an isolated case brought in by a migrating bird.
This news comes shortly after neighbouring Australia lost its bird-flu-free status. Australia detected its very first case of the H5 virus in June and has since reported 14 cases across the country.
New Zealand is famous for its unique wildlife. Before humans arrived, the islands had no land mammals, which allowed many rare birds—like the kiwi—to live on the ground without the ability to fly. Because these birds have no natural defence against new diseases, conservation workers are taking swift action. They have already started vaccinating breeding groups of the country’s five most endangered birds: the kakapo, takahe, shore plover, black stilt, and orange-fronted parakeet.
Authorities are asking the public to help monitor the situation. Anyone who sees a group of three or more sick or dead birds should report it to wildlife officials immediately.
