H5 bird flu and water sources
Current evidence suggests the risk of people getting H5 bird flu from contaminated water is very low. To find out more about H5 bird flu and water sources, go to the AgricultureVictoria website.
H5 bird flu mainly spreads between birds. In rare cases, it can spread to people through close contact with infected birds, their secretions, droppings, body fluids or contaminated environments.
Possible water source contamination
If you suspect a water source has been contaminated by sick or dead birds:
- do not use the water on fruit or vegetables that will be eaten raw
- assess whether the water is suitable for domestic, livestock or agricultural use
- seek advice if you have concerns about water quality.
Surface water used by wild or migratory birds is the most likely source of environmental contamination where H5 bird flu is present.
Bore water and rainwater tanks
Birds on roofs or near collection areas can contaminate rainwater collection systems.
However, H5 bird flu is easily destroyed by heat and standard water disinfection methods.
If you are concerned that a dead bird has contaminated your tank water:
- boil the water before drinking it or using it in food preparation
- inspect your roof, gutters and water collection system
- seek advice if you are unsure about the safety of your water.
If a bird has died on your roof and may have entered your rainwater collection system:
- avoid direct contact with the bird
- follow advice for the safe handling and disposal of dead birds
- clean the roof, gutters and collection points if you suspect they are contaminated
- boil water before drinking until you are confident the water is safe.
Boiling water can effectively destroy many disease-causing organisms, including heat-sensitive viruses.
Find out more about testing your bore water.
Water for livestock
Implementing good biosecurity measures reduces the risk of bird flu and many other livestock diseases.
Where practical:
- use deep bore water or enclosed tanks instead of untreated surface water
- fence off wetlands, dams and other high-risk water sources
- install bird deterrents or covers on smaller water troughs
- keep livestock away from areas where large numbers of waterbirds gather
- reduce standing water around yards, sheds and infrastructure
- restrict livestock access to wetlands and floodplains heavily used by waterbirds.
Good biosecurity practices
In addition to protecting water sources:
- monitor livestock for signs of illness
- report unusual sickness or deaths in birds or livestock
- clean and disinfect equipment that may come into contact with contaminated water
- limit access to areas used by wild birds where possible
- follow your property's biosecurity plan.
Swimming
The risk of humans getting H5 bird flu from swimming or other recreational water activities is considered very low.
Large, open waterways such as lakes, rivers and coastal beaches generally present a lower risk than small, enclosed or stagnant bodies of water. Natural water movement and dilution can reduce the concentration of contaminants in the environment.
To reduce your risk:
- avoid swimming or wading in small, stagnant ponds where large numbers of birds gather
- do not enter the water if you observe clusters of sick, injured or dead birds or marine animals nearby
- avoid contact with sick or dead birds, animal carcasses, dropping s and other animal waste.
If you see multiple sick or dead birds or other wildlife near a waterway:
- keep away from the area
- record the location and number of affected animals, if safe to do so
- report your observations online or if it is urgent call the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
If sick or dead birds or wildlife are present on a beach, riverbank or shoreline, avoid direct contact with the animals and any droppings or contaminated materials in the area. Wash your hands thoroughly if you have been in contact with potentially contaminated surfaces.