Scientists Observe Signs of H5 Bird Flu in Antarctic Wildlife

Australian scientists say they have found potential signs of H5 avian influenza in elephant seals on sub-Antarctic Heard Island.

A handout photo taken on Nov. 21, 2012 and released on Oct. 8, 2024 by the Australian Antarctic Division shows a waddle of King Penguins standing on the shores of Corinthian Bay in the Australian territory of Heard Island in the Southern Ocean. Matt Curnock/Australian Antarctic Division/AFP via Getty Images

Australian scientists say they have observed signs consistent with H5 avian influenza (bird flu) in wildlife during a management voyage to sub-Antarctic Heard Island.

While suspicions have not yet been confirmed, the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) says the observations reinforce the need for Australia to remain focused on preparing for an outbreak.