Bird flu (highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1, or HPAI) is spreading around the world right now. It is a highly contagious virus that can affect any type of bird and also poses risks to mammals.

The virus isn’t in New Zealand yet but we must be on the lookout for signs of the disease in birds: sudden death, tremors, weakness, paralysis, difficulty breathing, and diarrhoea. There is no cure for bird flu, and, once it spreads in wildlife, it can’t be eradicated.     

We need to:

• Keep pets away from wildlife  
• Stay away from nesting birds on beaches and rivers
• When visiting national parks, nature reserves or agricultural areas, keep shoes and clothes clean  
• Report groups of three or more sick or dead birds, marine mammals, or other wildlife to the Ministry for Primary Industries’ exotic pest and disease hotline: 0800 80 99 66  
• Not touch, handle, or collect dead or dying birds

More information on the Department of Conservation and Ministry for Primary Industries websites.