H5N1 avian flu is spreading in Australian bird populations following large numbers of bird deaths noted across affected areas. A little penguin on King Island has contracted the virus. Suspected cases of the infection have also emerged at a South Australian popular destination.
Mass vaccination of little penguins has begun in an attempt to limit the viral threat. Authorities are investigating what happens next when hundreds of animals perish from bird flu during an outbreak. Teams are striving to control the spread and safeguard local wildlife.