Australian authorities have reported the original case of H5 bird flu in a native seabird. The infected bird was found on a northern beach in Western Australia. Testing confirmed the virus as H5N1.
Thirteen detections recently have been logged in the country, featuring fresh 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 direct future response measures.