Australian authorities have reported the initial case of H5 bird flu in a native seabird. The infected bird was found on a northern beach in Western Australia. Testing identified the strain as H5N1.
Thirteen detections currently have been logged in the country, with fresh cases in South Australia and other shorelines. The findings have triggered alerts throughout the country. Officials say the discovery ushers in a 'devastating new reality' for Australia’s native bird populations and will guide upcoming mitigation steps.