Detection of avian influenza H7N8 in Greater Sydney

Update 23 June 2024

On 23 June 2024 the NSW Government confirmed a second detection of high pathogenic avian influenza, serotype H7N8 in a broiler farm in Greater Sydney. The detection of the virus was confirmed by PCR on Saturday 22 June. 

For more information see the NSW DPI Avian Influenza page

Read the NSW Chief Veterinary Officer Bulletin here: CVO Bulletin - Avian influenza Greater Sydney 23 June 2024.pdf

20 June 2024

The NSW Government has enacted its emergency biosecurity incident plan in response to the confirmed presence of high pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), serotype H7N8 in samples from a mixed barnyard and free-range commercial egg farm in Greater Sydney. 
 
The detection of the virus was confirmed by PCR on Wednesday 19 June after ruling out other likely viral causes. 
 
This is the first detection of avian influenza in NSW since 2013. All three previous detections of avian influenza in NSW have been successfully eradicated.   
 
There is no known connection to the current Victorian outbreak (H7N3). It is understood at this point to be a separate spill-over event, potentially from wild birds.
 
In addition, the H7N8 strain detected in Greater Sydney is not the same as the globally circulating H5N1 strain that is causing mass poultry and wildlife mortalities overseas.  
 
How to report symptoms 
Avian influenza is a notifiable disease in NSW.   
If you notice symptoms consistent with avian influenza, you must report it to the 24-hour Emergency Animal Disease Watch Hotline on 1800 675 888 or the Local Land Services on 1300 795 299 (during business hours).  
 
Further Information including clinical signs to look out for:
NSW CHIEF VETERINARY OFFICER BULLETIN 19 June 2024.
 
For more information visit: Avian influenza (nsw.gov.au)
For AVA resources on avian influenza visit: Highly pathogenic avian influenza (ava.com.au)