Bird flu detected in seagulls raises risk of a 'super-spreader' event
The detection of H5N1 bird flu in seagulls in South Australia has prompted experts to warn of an increased risk of a "super-spreader" event. Unlike other bird species detected with the virus so far, seagulls travel well beyond coastal areas into urban and inland regions.
Health and biosecurity officials in South Australia confirmed the detection of H5N1 bird flu in the local seagull population. Experts noted that seagulls, unlike other affected bird species, can range across a much wider area.
Scientists said seagulls regularly travel beyond coastal strips into rubbish tips, parks and urban areas, warning this could allow the virus to spread more quickly and widely. Officials urged the public to avoid contact with dead or sick birds.
Tasmania remains free of bird flu for now, but experts said it is likely a matter of when, not if, the virus arrives there. The livestock farming sector has tightened biosecurity measures in anticipation of a possible outbreak.
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