High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza in Wildlife — What It Means for Public Health

What “high pathogenicity avian influenza” means

High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza (HPAI) refers to strains of bird flu that cause severe disease and high mortality in birds. One strain receiving global attention is H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b, which has led to large outbreaks in wild bird populations across multiple continents and increasing detection in mammals.

Wild birds, particularly waterfowl such as ducks and gulls, act as natural reservoirs. Raptors and scavengers are affected when they feed on infected prey. The virus has also been detected in various mammal species following environmental exposure.

Although these wildlife impacts are significant, the risk to the general public remains low at present.

Why wildlife outbreaks matter

Wild birds migrate across regions and countries. When outbreaks occur, they indicate widespread environmental circulation. This has ecological consequences and increases the potential for exposure in people who handle wildlife, poultry, or contaminated materials.

Public health concern focuses on two areas:

• Rare but potentially severe human infection

• The theoretical risk of viral mutation enabling easier human-to-human spread

Currently, sustained person-to-person transmission has not been established.

Risk to humans

Human infection with H5N1 remains uncommon. When it occurs, it typically follows close, prolonged contact with infected birds or contaminated environments.

Reported symptoms in humans may include:

• Fever

• Cough

• Sore throat

• Muscle aches

• Conjunctivitis (eye inflammation)

• Severe respiratory illness in rare cases

Severe complications are more likely in individuals with high-intensity exposure, such as poultry workers or wildlife handlers.

In Australia, as of early 2026, the globally dominant H5N1 strain has not been confirmed in domestic wildlife, though surveillance continues due to migratory bird pathways.

How exposure usually happens

Risk increases with:

• Direct handling of sick or dead birds

• Contact with bird droppings, feathers, or contaminated water

• Close, unprotected occupational exposure

• Handling infected poultry without protective equipment

Casual outdoor activities such as walking in parks or beaches carry low risk when basic hygiene is observed.

Practical hygiene basics

Avoiding direct contact with sick or dead wildlife remains the most effective prevention strategy.

If you encounter a dead bird:

• Do not touch it with bare hands

• Report clusters of deaths through official channels

• Keep pets and livestock away

If disposal of a single carcass on private property becomes necessary, use gloves or a plastic barrier, double-bag securely, and wash hands thoroughly afterwards.

Clean footwear, tools, and clothing that may have contacted contaminated soil or water.

Higher-risk occupational groups

Wildlife carers, veterinarians, poultry workers, and farmers may require additional precautions, including:

• P2/N95 mask use

• Eye protection

• Gloves and protective clothing

• Strict hand hygiene

• Avoiding eating or drinking in contaminated areas

Seasonal influenza vaccination is recommended for people working with birds to reduce the theoretical risk of co-infection and viral reassortment.

Food safety reassurance

There is no evidence that properly cooked poultry or eggs transmit avian influenza. Cooking meat thoroughly and avoiding raw, unpasteurised products remain standard food safety practices.

Monitoring and reporting

Early reporting of unusual wildlife deaths supports rapid investigation and containment. In Australia, suspected cases can be reported to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.

If you develop flu-like symptoms within 10 days of contact with sick or dead wildlife, inform your GP and mention the exposure.

Staying informed without alarm

While global wildlife mortality is significant, the overall public health risk remains low for most people. Surveillance systems, laboratory testing, and coordinated reporting provide early detection and response capacity.

Staying calm, informed, and attentive to basic hygiene measures remains the most practical approach.

This article provides general health information only and does not replace medical advice. Please speak with your GP for personalised care.