First mammal case of H5 bird flu in Victoria raises new wildlife concerns

Victorian authorities have confirmed that a red fox found dead at Torquay was infected with the H5 strain of avian influenza, marking the state’s first recorded case of the virus in a mammal.

The same officials also suspect that a dolphin discovered dead near Lorne died from the same virus, although laboratory confirmation is still pending.

Acting chief veterinary officer Cameron Gunn explained that while wild foxes and other scavengers have not been shown to transmit the virus themselves, they could still spread the disease by moving infected carcasses.

Since 20 June, surveillance teams have investigated 892 bird samples, finding 212 positive for H5 bird flu across the state.

In response, the Victorian government plans to prioritize vaccination for threatened captive species, such as the little penguins on Phillip Island, which have already seen deaths from the virus.

Experts warn that the detection of H5 in mammals signals a potential shift in the virus’s host range, meaning wildlife managers will need to expand monitoring and preventive measures as the breeding season approaches.

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