H5N1 bird flu detected in New Zealand: Public health risk remains low

Te Whatu Ora | Health NZ has issued a public health advisory following the first detection of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N1) in a wild bird in New Zealand. The overall risk to human health remains low, and there are currently no suspected or confirmed human cases in New Zealand. Infection in humans is rare and generally requires close contact with infected birds or other infected animals.

What healthcare professionals should know

Healthcare professionals should:

• remain alert for H5N1 in people with compatible symptoms and a recent history of close contact with infected or potentially infected birds or animals
• urgently notify the local public health service of any suspected human cases
• isolate suspected cases and follow appropriate infection prevention and control measures
• seek infectious diseases and microbiology advice regarding testing and management

Advice for patients and the public

Patients and whānau should be advised to:

• avoid touching sick or dead birds
• report three or more sick or dead wild birds to the Ministry for Primary Industries' Exotic Pest and Disease Hotline (0800 80 99 66)
• continue to handle and cook poultry and eggs safely, as H5N1 is not considered a food safety risk

Please refer to Te Whatu Ora | Health NZ public health advisory for the full clinical guidance, case definition, testing recommendations and notification requirements.

An information sheet on avian influenza is also provided for more information.