What additional support, if any, is being considered for native bird hospitals regarding avian influenza H5N1, including but not limited to funding for triage and containment facilities, sufficient staffing to enable a 7-day operation for public support, or advice for vets and other wildlife agencies?

Answer

Native bird hospitals, vets, and wildlife agencies are currently being supported by One Health agencies through the provision of guidance and advice regarding the management of their facilities and birds in their care after the arrival of H5 bird flu to New Zealand. The Ministry for Primary Industries and the Department of Conservation are further working together to identify wildlife rehabilitation centres and bird hospitals that may play a role in triaging H5 bird flu detections in wild birds should the number of cases increase. This work is ongoing and is focused on ensuring appropriate capability and capacity are available. H5 bird flu positive wildlife cannot be successfully rehabilitated. Protection of these individuals in their natural habitats remains the best approach to build population resilience and immunity.