Avian influenza detected at fourth Euroa property

This new detection is within the 5km restricted area and close to the three other infected properties, the third of which was detected on February 20.

All the infected properties are within the restricted area and under quarantine.

Victorian acting chief veterinary officer Cameron Bell said given the close proximity to existing infected properties, this new detection was not unexpected.

He said Agriculture Victoria staff were on the ground working closely with industry to contain and eradicate the virus.

“This detection is the result of comprehensive and ongoing surveillance activities by Agriculture Victoria staff within restricted and control areas,” Dr Bell said.

Control orders have been in place since H7 was first detected on a poultry farm on February 8.

Control orders restrict the movement of poultry, poultry products, equipment and vehicles on or off properties in designated zones around the infected properties to prevent disease spread.

These zones include a restricted area covering a 5km radius around the farms, with a broader control area spanning the Strathbogie Shire east of the Goulburn Valley Fwy, and including the townships of Euroa, Violet Town, Longwood, Ruffy, Avenel and Strathbogie.

“If you are in the control or restricted areas, you cannot move birds (including game birds), products (including eggs and manure) or equipment into, out of, or within the area without permit,” Dr Bell said.

“This includes selling or giving away eggs from your poultry — these must not leave your property.”

A housing requirement remains in place for properties with 50 or more birds in the restricted area. This includes Euroa and extends about 5km from the affected properties in all directions.

To reduce the risk of further disease spread, birds on these properties must be kept in cages or sheds to avoid contact with other birds.

Bird owners are reminded to keep sheds, yards, aviaries and equipment clean, and to restrict contact with wild birds.

They should ensure their footwear is clean and wash hands before and after handling birds or eggs. New birds should be quarantined before being integrated with existing ones.

“A strong biosecurity system relies on everyone playing their part,” Dr Bell said.

“Avian influenza is a notifiable disease, which means you must tell us if you know of or suspect the presence of avian influenza in any birds without delay.

“Your co-operation is crucial to getting on top of this outbreak.

“We thank the impacted properties for their co-operation and would like to reassure Victorians that supermarket eggs and poultry products remain safe to consume.”

This is a new outbreak and not related to the 2024 outbreaks in Victoria, NSW and the ACT, which were successfully eradicated.

This is not the H5N1 bird flu strain that is impacting other parts of the world.

Community members must report any suspected disease and sudden poultry death by calling the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226.

For more information, including checking whether you are in the restricted area or control area, visit: agriculture.vic.gov.au/avianinfluenza