27.01.2012

Avian influenza has been detected at two sites north-west of Melbourne.
The Department of Primary Industries has quarantined two sites owned by a commercial duck farmer after birds there tested positive to low pathogenic avian influenza.
The farms are believed to be in Gisborne and Mickleham. The virus was found at one of the farms, but due to the shared ownership, both have been quarantined.
At least 10,000 ducks will have to be destroyed. DPI Chief Veterinary Officer Andrew Cameron says analytical tests carried out at the Australian Animal Health Laboratory at Geelong in Victoria, has found the pathogenic H5 subtype avian influenza virus, prompting authorities to act immediately.
The cases were detected during routine testing for other conditions. Australia has had five outbreaks of avian influenza in chickens between 1976 and 1997. The outbreaks were in Victoria, Queensland and NSW.
None of the outbreaks was caused by the H5N1 subtype, and all were successfully eradicated.