9932 (2024). Hon Dr Ayesha Verrall to the Minister of Health

9932 (2024). Hon Dr Ayesha Verrall to the Minister of Health: What is the current status of avian influenza (H5N1) surveillance and preparedness measures in New Zealand, if any?

Hon Dr Shane Reti: I am advised that the Ministry for Primary Industries is the lead agency for avian influenza surveillance and preparedness in New Zealand, while the Ministry of Health leads the human health aspects. Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza H5N1 is currently a notifiable disease in New Zealand. I am advised that any case must be reported to the local Medical Officer of Health at the National Public Health Service, and the Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR) coordinates surveillance for this. This is the primary mechanism by which public health services will become aware of a human case. ESR also coordinates acute respiratory illness surveillance programmes which may incidentally detect cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza.