Te Whatu Ora Health New Zealand has issued a public health advisory following the detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI H5N1) in migratory wild birds in southern Australia. While this is the closest the virus has been detected to New Zealand, the public health risk here remains low and there is currently no evidence of H5N1 in New Zealand.
Healthcare professionals are asked to be aware of the testing criteria for patients presenting with compatible symptoms and relevant exposure to infected animals or contaminated environments. Suspected cases should be notified urgently to the local Medical Officer of Health through the usual notification process.
The advisory also includes information for diagnostic laboratories, links to further resources and an overview of New Zealand's preparedness activities.
View the public advisory for full guidance and key actions for healthcare professionals.