Highly pathogenic avian influenza has been detected on a seventh poultry farm near Melbourne, according to the Victoria state government, Reuters reports.
Six farms have the H7N3 strain and one has H7N9, but neither is the highly concerning H5N1 strain. Restricted areas are established around infected sites, which include six egg farms and one duck farm. Approximately 1 million chickens, or 5% of Australia’s egg-laying flock, are being culled to control the virus.
Despite the culling, there is no egg shortage yet, though some retailers are limiting purchases. Previous outbreaks in Australia have been successfully contained and eradicated. Authorities confirm that duck and chicken eggs and meat are safe to eat.
