13236 (2024). Hon Dr Ayesha Verrall to the Minister of Health

13236 (2024). Hon Dr Ayesha Verrall to the Minister of Health: Has the spread of H5N1 in dairy herds and to humans caused him to seek a resolution on the need for improved surveillance of communicable diseases urgently?

Hon Dr Shane Reti: No, I am advised that the Ministry of Health is confident that the current acute respiratory illness surveillance system is well-placed to detect any human cases of H5N1. Multiple labs across the country including the National Influenza Centre at the Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR) routinely test for H5N1. In the event of an outbreak in animals, Health New Zealand will communicate with clinicians to ensure they are appropriately aware of the potential for human cases.