Bird flu, also known as avian influenza, is an infectious disease caused by influenza A viruses that mainly affect birds. It can sometimes spread from birds to other animals and rarely to humans.

While rare in humans, people who come into close contact with sick birds or other animals are at higher risk of getting bird flu.

Frequently asked questions

If you find a sick or dead bird, do not touch it. Call the Emergency Animal Disease (EAD) Hotline on 1800 675 888 to report sick or dead birds. 

More information is available from the Agriculture Victoria website. 

If you think you might have been exposed to bird flu, contact your Local Public Health Unit for advice. 

See your doctor if you develop flu-like symptoms after recently returning from a country or area with bird flu outbreaks, or after having contact with sick or dead birds or animals.  

Prior to travelling overseas, check for any notices or recommendations on Smartraveller and from the Australian Centre for Disease Control Bird flu (avian influenza) | Australian Centre for Disease Control. 

Clinical information for health professionals can be found from the Australian Centre for Disease Control Bird flu (avian influenza) | Australian Centre for Disease Control. 

Medical practitioners and pathology services must notify any suspected or confirmed cases of avian influenza immediately to the Victorian Department of Health by calling 1300 651 160 (24/7) and connecting to the relevant Local Public Health Unit.  

It is normal for people to have strong emotional or physical reactions to distressing events.

Animal disease outbreaks affect different community members in different ways. It is understandable to feel distressed and anxious when the future is uncertain. This is natural. If you feel overwhelmed, it is important to ask for help. Encourage friends and family to seek help too, if needed.

Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals 

  • Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals are a free service for Victorians aged 26 and over.  
  • They provide treatment, care and support for your mental health and wellbeing close to home. 
  • They’re free and you don’t need a GP referral, Medicare card or mental health care plan. 
  • They provide access to a wide range of professional and confidential support, including from psychologists, peer workers and other mental health workers.   

Find your nearest Mental Health and Wellbeing Local by visiting the Better Health Channel <https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/mental-health-wellbeing-locals>  

Partners in Wellbeing 

  • If a Mental Health and Wellbeing Local or Hub is not open near you, you can call Partners in Wellbeing for support on 1300 375 330 Monday to Friday, 9am – 5pm. 
  • Available statewide, Partners in Wellbeing offers free, phone-based support for Victorians aged 16 and over who are experiencing mental health and wellbeing challenges, including those without Medicare or permanent residency. 

In an emergency where there is immediate risk of harm to a person, call Triple Zero (000).  

For 24-hour crisis support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.