H5 bird flu, a contagious viral disease primarily affecting birds, has been confirmed in Dodges Ferry, with a greater crested tern testing positive for the virus. This detection is one of four new H5 bird flu events recorded across Tasmania since September 9, bringing the statewide total to 37 confirmed events.

The Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania (NRE Tas) announced on September 15, 2026, that other recent detections include a silver gull in Hobart’s CBD and another greater crested tern in St Helens. The first case of H5N1 bird flu in Tasmania was recorded in August 2026.

Despite the increasing number of detections in wild birds, the Department of Health advises that the risk of H5 bird flu to people in Tasmania remains low, and human infection is rare. There have been no human cases reported in Australia. Furthermore, NRE Tas confirms there have been no detections in Tasmanian poultry, and chicken and eggs remain safe for consumption.

Tasmanians are encouraged to take sensible precautions to help prevent the spread of the virus and protect both wildlife and domestic animals. Residents should avoid all contact with sick or dead birds and other wildlife, including their feathers, fluids, saliva, and droppings.

If a sick or dead bird or other animal is sighted, the community is urged to record the type of animal, the number of animals, and the exact location, taking photos or videos if it is safe to do so. This information should then be reported immediately to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.

Pet owners also have a role to play in prevention. NRE Tas advises keeping cats indoors or in enclosures, ensuring dogs are kept on leads, and preventing contact between wild birds and domestic birds or poultry.

Incident Controller Wes Ford previously stated that the latest results were not unexpected, reflecting ongoing surveillance activities across the state. NRE Tas has shifted its reporting focus to new localities and species affected, rather than individual positive tests, as the disease is expected to continue spreading.

The Tasmanian Government is actively monitoring the situation. State Biosecurity Controller Rae Burrows announced the launch of a new online dashboard and an interactive map on the NRE Tas website, allowing Tasmanians to track detections. A register for owners of pet and domestic birds has also been introduced to strengthen the state’s biosecurity response.

In a proactive measure, Tasmania has commenced vaccinating captive Orange-bellied Parrots against H5 bird flu, with approximately 350 birds expected to receive the vaccine by February. This program aims to protect one of Australia’s most threatened birds and forms part of a broader preparedness strategy.

Authorities reiterate that there are currently no mass mortalities of wildlife reported in Tasmania. For the most current advice and further information, residents are directed to the Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania website.