Australia Detects First Case Of H5N1 Birdflu

Australia confirmed the first mainland case of the H5N1 avian influenza in a migratory brown skua found in Western Australia. Agriculture Minister Julie Collins said tests by the Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness confirmed the cause of death, marking the first mainland detection of the highly pathogenic strain. A second bird, a giant petrel, was found sick nearby on Thursday and has since been quarantined. The development underscores ongoing global spread of H5N1 and prompts wildlife monitoring and containment measures in the region.