1 September 2026
H5 bird flu: What the community needs to know
If you see sick or dead birds or other animals – please do not touch them.
- Avoid contact.
- Record what you see.
- Report sick or dead birds or other animals.
Call the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline: 1800 675 888
H5N1 Avian influenza (H5 bird flu) is a viral disease of birds that is found globally. H5 bird flu is currently impacting all parts of the world and has recently been confirmed in Australia.
H5 bird flu can affect wild birds, domestic poultry and other animals. The community should remain alert for H5 bird flu and to report sick or dead animals. Public reporting is a critical part of the response and supporting ongoing detection efforts.
If you find sick or dead birds or animals, do not touch or approach them or their environment.
-
- Avoid contact with sick or dead birds and animals, and their surroundings
- Record what you see, take photos or video if it is safe to do so, noting the location
- Report sightings of sick or dead birds of any species, and other animals.
Reports can be made through the NSW Government’s online reporting form or by calling the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
Please do not take suspected animals to the local vet.
Maintaining strong on-farm biosecurity practices is an important part of protecting poultry flocks and reducing the risk of disease spread. See more resources below.
Find out more
For the latest information and reportings, visit:
NSW Government: H5 bird flu
Australian Government: Latest H5 bird flu data
Report sick or dead birds or wildlife: NSW Government online reporting form
