Australian authorities have confirmed the initial case of H5 bird flu in a native seabird. The infected bird was discovered on a remote beach in Western Australia. Testing confirmed the strain as H5N1.
Thirteen detections currently have been recorded in the country, including new cases in South Australia and other coastal sites. The findings have triggered alerts nationwide. Officials say the discovery creates a 'devastating new reality' for Australia’s native bird populations and will guide future response measures.