Australian authorities have verified the initial case of H5 bird flu in a native seabird. The infected bird was located on a remote beach in Western Australia. Testing detected the strain as H5N1.
Thirteen detections now have been recorded in the country, including additional cases in South Australia and other shorelines. The findings have set off alerts throughout the country. Officials say the discovery produces a 'devastating new reality' for Australia’s native bird populations and will guide next action plans.