Australian authorities have verified the first case of H5 bird flu in a native seabird. The infected bird was found on a coastal beach in Western Australia. Testing identified the strain as H5N1.
Thirteen detections currently have been noted in the country, featuring new cases in South Australia and other beach areas. The findings have set off alerts throughout the country. Officials state the discovery ushers in a 'devastating new reality' for Australia’s native bird populations and will shape upcoming mitigation steps.