Australia rolls out bird flu vaccines for native species

7News Just In · Aug 11, 2026 · 1m

Australia is preparing to vaccinate vulnerable native birds, including cockatoos, against the deadly H5 bird flu strain that has already impacted more than 200 animals. Following New Zealand's lead in vaccinating species like the Takahē and Kakapo, Australia has secured 1,500 vaccine vials with states and territories deciding which species receive priority based on vulnerability and conservation risk. While the vaccine won't stop the virus spreading, it could protect at-risk species, though wild birds present challenges as two doses are required and capturing them twice is difficult.See…