Australia reports suspected H5N1 bird flu case in wild bird in Western Australia

CANBERRA, Australia — Australia has recorded its first suspected case of H5N1 bird flu, detected in a migratory wild bird in the state of Western Australia, Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Minister Julie Collins said. The bird was placed in quarantine after being found and died the same night, according to state authorities. Australia had been regarded as the only continent without a recorded bird flu case. Officials noted that laboratory results could indicate the virus has now reached all continents. Samples taken from the bird are being tested, with results expected on Saturday. Australia has previously dealt with outbreaks of less severe strains of avian influenza in poultry, but never with the H5N1 strain linked to widespread outbreaks overseas. Further details on the source of the infected bird and the scope of any response were not immediately available.