VideoA deadly bird flu outbreak is spreading across Australia with more than 50 cases recorded, including a mass mortality event at Cape Jaffa, South Australia, where 49 dead Crested Terns have been found.

Australia has recorded its first mass mortality event from H5 bird flu, with the federal government warning the outbreak could worsen.

Agriculture Minister Julie Collins said the CSIRO had confirmed a mass mortality event has occurred with the greater crested terns species in South Australia.

“Australians should expect to see more spread and larger number now of wildlife being affected,” she said.

Camera Icon74 cases of bird flu have been recorded across Australia. @jamesbennettwild Credit: Supplied Source Known

“We would do everything we could do to protect Australian wildlife wherever possible.”

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CSIRO testing confirmed a flock of dead wild birds at Baudin Rocks in South Australia’s southeast had come back positive, in the first mass casualty of bird flu in Australia.

A total of 74 cases of the H5 bird flu, including 54 cases in South Australia, have now been recorded.

Western Australia, NSW, Queensland and Victoria have also recorded confirmed deaths in birds.

More to come

Originally published as Agriculture Minister confirms 74 cases of H5 bird flu recorded in Australia, first mass mortality event

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