Australia confirms the first detection of the highly pathogenic H5 bird flu strain (H5N1) on the mainland after two migratory seabirds were found dead on remote beaches in Western Australia. Agriculture minister Julie Collins says tests conducted through national science agencies confirm H5N1 in a brown skua found in remote Western Australia. Another sick or deceased bird, a northern giant petrel, is also reported as testing positive or suspected positive, with SBS News describing it as the second confirmed case detected near the initial detection area.

Multiple outlets report the discovery triggers an emergency response, including meetings of animal health and agriculture officials and heightened surveillance. The government says there is no evidence of mass mortalities at the time of reporting and no evidence of infection in poultry. The findings are presented as part of a risk associated with global spread through migratory birds.

Some outlets note concern among wildlife and preparedness groups that Australia’s planning and response may be challenged by the virus’s history worldwide, where it has caused severe disease and high death rates in wild birds, domestic poultry, and some mammals. Additional context is provided that H5 bird flu has previously not been detected in Australia before this announcement.