H5N1 avian flu is circulating among Australian bird populations amid widespread wildlife fatalities noted across affected areas. A little penguin on King Island has tested positive for the deadly pathogen. Suspected cases of the infection have been detected at a South Australian visitor location.
Mass vaccination of little penguins has started in response to the viral threat. Authorities are examining what happens next when hundreds of animals succumb to bird flu during an unfolding crisis. Teams are moving quickly to manage the situation and preserve vulnerable bird populations.