Agriculture Victoria is responding to the detection of avian influenza at 8 Victorian poultry farms. Avian influenza is a viral disease of birds found globally. 

Information for bird owning residents

Keeping your backyard poultry and aviary birds safe 

• Regularly clean the cage or coop area including feeders, drinkers and equipment.
• Frequently replace nesting materials.
• Always wash your hands with warm water and soap after handling birds, eggs or other coop or aviary materials.
• Try to avoid contact between your backyard poultry/aviary birds with wild birds/rodents, pets and visitors to your home.
• Quarantine any new birds for 10 days before introducing them to your existing flock.
• Make sure drinking water is clean and there are no droppings or animal waste. Use mains water from the tap.
• Use new or clean re-used egg cartons if you are collecting and storing eggs.

The first sign of avian influenza may be the sudden death of some of the poultry. Other signs include:

• Decreased appetite.
• Decreased egg production.
• Ruffled feathers.
• Decreased activity.
• Birds having trouble breathing.
• Swelling around the head or conjunctivitis.

For more information, visit the Agriculture Victoria website.

 

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