Australia detects first H5 bird flu case in a mammal
The virus was found in a fur seal in Beachport, with 194 of 298 national cases reported in South Australia.
Australia has confirmed its first H5 bird flu case in a mammal after a long-nosed fur seal tested positive in Beachport, about 300 kilometers south of Adelaide, South Australia. Federal Agriculture Minister Julie Collins said the finding was likely linked to exposure to infected wild birds or the same environment. The government said the case does not appear to be connected to other sick or dead marine mammals. Since the outbreak began, Australia has recorded 298 positive H5 bird flu cases, including 194 in South Australia. Authorities also said there is no evidence of infection on poultry farms or in the agriculture sector. Local officials have asked pet owners to keep dogs on leashes and cats indoors.