The detection of a deadly strain of bird flu in Australia could have considerable impacts on the poultry industry and broader agricultural sector.
Two birds in Western Australia have tested positive for the H5N1 virus, with some major producers locking down farms as a precaution, despite no cases being detected in commercial operations.
It was different from past bird flu strains Australia had faced because the virus had caused significant damage overseas, Australian National University expert Robyn Alders said.
"The impacts are considerable, both in terms of agriculture but there are concerns for the poultry industry," Dr Alders said.
"We are aware that the H5N1 is causing significant infection and productivity losses to the dairy industry in the US.
"There have been some evidence in wild pigs out of Canada."
