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A little penguin about to receive a vaccination against H5 avian flu. Photo: NSW Government.<\/p>\n
Little penguin colonies along the Illawarra and South Coast are being vaccinated to protect them from the threat of the deadly H5 avian flu.<\/p>\n
The vaccination program is part of NSW\u2019s broader efforts to safeguard priority wildlife populations from the global spread of H5 bird flu, one of the most significant disease threats facing wild birds worldwide.<\/p>\n
Almost 60 little penguins at Barunguba Montague Island have already received their first dose of the vaccine.<\/p>\n
Teams have begun vaccinating the birds on Big Island (part of the Five Islands off Port Kembla) and Bowen Island at Jervis Bay, with programs to follow at Tollgate Islands and Snapper Island, off Batemans Bay.<\/p>\n
The vaccine requires two doses to be administered three to four weeks apart.<\/p>\n
NSW Environment Minister Penny Sharpe said the vaccination operations were a major logistical undertaking.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur teams are navigating difficult terrain and challenging conditions because protecting our little penguins is too important to ignore,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
\u201cEvery step is being guided by the best available science, expert veterinary advice and a strong commitment to animal welfare.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe South Coast program is giving us valuable insights into how vaccination can support wildlife conservation and strengthen our preparedness for future outbreaks.\u201d<\/p>\n
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Dozens of little penguins alongside seals on Barunguba Montague Island. Photo: NSW Government.<\/p>\n
Penguins are weighed and microchipped, allowing teams to monitor their health and identify birds for follow-up vaccinations.<\/p>\n
GPS mapping and motion-sensor cameras are also used at some sites to monitor nests and penguin activity following vaccination.<\/p>\n
The team has worked with veterinarians and wildlife specialists to determine how best to locate, capture and vaccinate the penguins while minimising disturbance and respecting the cultural significance and sensitivities of each site.<\/p>\n
Agriculture and Regional NSW Minister Tara Moriarty said everyone involved in the operation shared a common goal of protecting unique wildlife and preserving important ecosystems.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe public continues to play a critical role in our surveillance efforts. Every report of sick or dead wild birds helps build a clearer picture of animal health across the state and can provide valuable early warning information,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
Vaccination efforts are also advancing at captive wildlife facilities, with a number of facilities progressing through the necessary approval process.<\/p>\n
NSW has recorded 68 H5 bird flu events, including a number of confirmed cases in the Illawarra and South Coast.<\/p>\n
The Federal Government recently launched a campaign, Bird flu, what to do<\/a>, to help the community know what to do should they encounter sick or dead birds.<\/p>\n It also provides practical information to help them protect wildlife, poultry and pets from the threats of the H5 bird flu.<\/p>\n Authorities say if you notice sick or dead birds or other animals, do not touch them or get too close. Take photos if safe to do so, note your location and report it to the 24-hour Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.<\/p>\n Original Article published by Jen White on Region Illawarra<\/a>.<\/p>\n