Seven fresh H5 bird flu detections spark new reporting approach on NSW coast

Health officials in New South Wales confirmed seven fresh detections of the deadly H5 bird flu strain along the far south coast, comprising two greater crested terns and a giant petrel in Narooma and four greater crested terns in Merimbula. In response, the state will cease publishing individual case counts and will instead use an "events" framework that aggregates related investigations. Biosecurity signs have been installed at Spencer Park and Mitchies Jetty to advise beachgoers to stay clear of ill or dead birds and marine animals.

Resident Andrew Dovell, who reported a sick bird to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline, said he feels "gutted" by the news. Ecologist Steve Sass noted the strain's high contagion and warned that further fatalities among crested terns are likely. The outbreak adds to similar H5 incidents reported in South Australia and Tasmania, underscoring broader regional concerns.