Although human infection with H5N1 is rare, people can become infected following close or prolonged contact with infected birds, poultry or contaminated environments. Human cases have historically been associated with exposure to infected animals rather than routine contact between people. The appearance of H5N1 in Tasmania does not automatically mean there is a high risk to the general public. However, the spread of the virus across wildlife populations highlights the importance of bird flu surveillance, biosecurity and early detection.
