Bird flu has been detected at a fourth Victorian poultry farm, agricultural authorities have revealed.
Agriculture Victoria confirmed the H7N3 strain of highly pathogenic avian influenza was detected on Wednesday at a property in the Golden Plains Shire, in the central-western part of the state.
The farm has been quarantined and Agriculture Victoria staff are working to further restrict the spread.
“All poultry will be disposed of safely under veterinary supervision, in accordance with national policies, and the sites will be cleaned and free of infection,” Agriculture Victoria said in a statement.
The four farms affected by the outbreak are in Victoria’s largest egg-producing region.
Victorian Farmers Federation vice-president Danyel Cucinotta said egg availability could vary between outlets.
“We anticipate an increase in egg supply over the next week and are working as hard as possible to maintain availability,” Ms Cucinotta told ABC.
“My advice is to compare prices at your local grocery store, market or small independent store to purchase your eggs.”
Chicken or hen in a green meadow.
This is because highly contagious flu has been detected on three farms near Meredith and one near Terang, all of which have two highly pathogenic strains of the virus.
A spokesperson confirmed that the new detection occurred within the current 5 kilometer restricted area.
Victoria’s chief veterinary officer, Graeme Cooke, said the new detection was not unexpected.
“Bird flu is a viral disease of birds found around the world; many species of wild birds, including waterfowl and seabirds, can carry the virus but usually show no signs of illness,” Dr Cooke said. .
“We remind bird owners that housing birds, where practical, is an effective method of minimizing direct contact with wild birds.”
Avian influenza is a highly contagious viral infection in birds, which can cause severe symptoms and even death in birds.
Several farms have confirmed cases of bird flu, and a restricted zone has now been established for the central-west area. Image: Supplied / Agriculture Victoria
However, officials say consumers should not worry about eggs or poultry products in supermarkets as they do not pose a risk to human safety and can be consumed safely.
There are mild strains of flu that cause few or no symptoms and can go undetected, while other mild strains can progress to severe strains.
The current outbreaks have caused properties where the virus was detected to be quarantined and a restricted zone established.
Officials have also issued a “housing” requirement for all birds within the areas.
This means that all poultry farmers, backyard flocks and bird owners should house or keep their birds in closed cages or sheds as much as possible.