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Bird flu and the risk of human infection
The risk to the general public in New Zealand remains low. There are different types (strains) of avian influenza (bird flu) viruses and they do not spread easily from animals to people, or from person to person.
Sustained human-to-human transmission has not been reported. Human infections remain rare and are generally associated with close contact with infected animals.
H5 bird flu and food safety
People cannot get the H5 bird flu virus from eating food.
It is safe to eat poultry and eggs. There is no evidence that people can be infected through eating poultry or eggs, but it remains important to continue practicing good food handling and preparation techniques.
Food safety advice during bird flu outbreaks – Fact sheet [PDF, 303 KB]
Poultry and egg processing requirements
Infections in other mammals
Overseas, H5 bird flu (H5N1 avian influenza clade 2.3.4.4b) has been found in numerous species of mammals. They can be infected with the disease after contact with infected birds or contaminated material, including water, feed, and litter.
It has been detected in dairy cattle in the United States (US), with cattle generally recovering from the disease in 2 to 3 weeks with supportive care. The US is the only country where cases of H5 bird flu have been reported in cattle.
Bird flu health and safety guidelines for workplaces
Guidelines for workplace managers and people who work with birds and other animals at risk of bird flu in New Zealand are available.
They provide advice for at-risk occupational groups – those in contact with potentially infected birds and other animals, their products and contaminated materials, or their environments and habitats.
Read the guidelines and identify any actions you or your business may need to take.
Avian influenza health and safety guidance for workplaces – Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora
Keeping yourself safe from bird flu in the outdoors
If you spend time outdoors in areas where wild birds or marine mammals are present, practise good hand hygiene and avoid contact with sick or dead animals. Wash your hands either with soap and running water or use alcohol hand rubs as frequently, thoroughly, and often as possible – especially before and after contact with animals and their environments.
- If you encounter sick or dead wild birds or marine mammals, you should avoid contact with them or their bodily fluids.
- If you see 3 or more sick or dead wild birds in a group, report it immediately to the exotic pest and disease hotline on 0800 80 99 66 or report online at report.mpi.govt.nz
- Do not handle or move the birds.
Bird flu: staying safe and alert when outdoors
Overseas travellers and avian influenza
If you’re travelling overseas, you should, if possible, avoid:
- wild birds and poultry
- fur farms
- animals in live markets
- entering areas where poultry may be slaughtered
- contact with any surfaces that appear to be contaminated with faeces from poultry or other animals.
When returning to New Zealand, follow all biosecurity requirements. Contact your doctor if you feel unwell and inform them of your travel history, including any exposure to birds or other sick animals.
Symptoms of bird flu in people and what to do
Bird flu symptoms may include:
- a high temperature or feeling hot
- aching muscles and a headache
- a cough or shortness of breath
- diarrhoea
- stomach and chest pains
- conjunctivitis.
Get health advice
Contact your healthcare provider or call Healthline on 0800 611 116 if you:
- develop symptoms after contact with sick or dead birds or other animals
- become unwell after overseas travel where bird flu is present
- are concerned about possible exposure.
More information
Avian influenza – Health New Zealand
Influenza (avian and other zoonotic) – World Health Organisation (WHO)