Avian influenza (H5N1): why are experts concerned about the virus reaching Antarctica?

While much of our attention has been on COVID-19 over the last few years, another pandemic has reeked havoc on more than 200 species of wild birds. The spread of H5N1 or bird flu as its more commonly known, to migrating birds has seen substantial outbreaks occur in Europe, Asia, Africa, North America and South America. As this podcast goes to air, there’s been at least one suspected case in Antarctica.

Expert in the wild bird viruses, Dr Michelle Wille, explains why this could be catastrophic.

Show notes:

To report sick or dead birds to the Emergency animal disease watch hotline is 1800 675 888.

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