← June 20, 2026 briefingHealth
H5N1 bird flu reaches Australian mainland for first time
Australia has confirmed its first mainland H5N1 case after a brown skua seabird found ill on the Western Australian coast tested positive, with a second bird also suspected to be infected. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called the development "concerning," though authorities say there is currently no evidence the virus has reached poultry or agricultural systems.
MarketHantavirus pandemic in 2026?
Hantavirus pandemic in 2026?4% chance
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