Charles Sturt University’s Institute for Land Water and Society will host a free public information evening on “Bird Flu-a local perspective” on Wednesday, May 3 from 6.30-8.30 pm in the Conference Room, Charles Sturt University, Orange.

 

The information evening, which will discuss the implications of the spread of avian influenza on human and bird health, and planning for a possible outbreak, is the third and last in a series organised by the Institute in response to concerns about what would happen if the disease spreads to Australia.

 

“The big issue for us is if avian influenza mutates into a human virus,” says the director of Population Health for the Greater Western Area Health Service, Dr Tony Brown. “A pandemic action plan for the region has been developed as part of a State and National preparedness plan.”

 

Even if the virus doesn’t mutate, the potential impact of avian influenza on Australia’s poultry industry, pets, backyard chickens and breeding flocks could be substantial. If the disease spreads to Australia, it could mean that domestic flocks would have to be culled so there are serious primary industry implications.

 

The evening, which will be chaired by Professor Kevin Parton, Head of CSUs Orange campus, will look at these two aspects of avian influenza within the local context.

 

There will be three speakers:

 

The speakers and a representative from the Orange City Council who can talk about a local response to an outbreak will then be part of a panel for a public “question and answer” session.

 

“Hosting discussion panels on important issues of the day, such as this one, provides an opportunity for our researchers to contribute to their regional communities,” said the director of the Institute for Land, Water and Society, Professor Allan Curtis.

 

All are welcome to attend the evening. CSU wine and cheese available. Please RSVP to Nicky Loane on 02 6933 2778 or by email.