Australian researchers are scanning Antarctica for signs of the H5N1 bird flu, as experts warn its arrival on the frozen continent is inevitable.
“It will arrive at some stage, we just don’t know when, and so we need to put the preparation in now,” said Dr. Louise Emmerson, a seabird ecologist with the Australian Antarctic Program.
H5N1 has devastated bird populations worldwide, killing millions and spreading to mammals. The virus has already entered the Antarctic Circle, where it has reportedly wiped out 10,000 albatrosses and decimated penguin colonies.
Australian scientists have ramped up biosecurity at the nation’s Antarctic bases, disinfecting boots and equipment to prevent the virus from spreading further. “We’re encouraging people not to put things on the ground unnecessarily,” Emmerson said.
Wildlife teems around these bases, including emperor penguins, giant petrels, and skuas. “If the virus breaks out among this wildlife, it could create an infection pathway from Antarctica to Australia,” Emmerson warned.
Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek highlighted Australia’s $100 million plan to combat H5N1, including vaccinating wildlife and managing carcasses.
“Antarctica is a core part of the government’s preparations for an outbreak,” Plibersek said, adding that monitoring efforts are ongoing near key research stations.
