Summary
- Be alert to possible H5N1 avian influenza following contact with sick birds.
- Contact the Metro South Public Health Unit if you suspect a case.
H5N1 avian influenza has been detected in birds and mammals in Australia. No human cases have been reported.
While the disease does not spread easily from animals to people, contact with sick animals (especially birds) should be avoided.
People should also practise good hand hygiene after contact with birds, including domestic poultry.
H5N1 shares symptoms of all forms of influenza, including fever, cough, sore throat, rhinorrhoea, conjunctivitis, myalgia, headache and fatigue.
If a patient has compatible symptoms following contact with a sick bird, contact the Metro South Public Health Unit on 3156 4000 to discuss testing and management.
After hours, contact Princess Alexandra Hospital on 3176 2111 and ask for the Public Health doctor on call.
The seasonal influenza vaccine does not protect against H5N1.