Testing from the CSIRO has confirmed the presence of the highly pathogenic H7N8 strain of avian influenza at a farm near Euroa.

Staff are currently on the ground to assist with controlling the outbreak and further investigating the situation at the farm in the Strathbogie Shire.

A five-kilometre quarantine zone around the farm has been established.

“Avian influenza is commonly spread by wild birds, and unfortunately, despite the business having excellent biosecurity controls in place, poultry have been infected,” Acting Chief Veterinarian Cameron Bell said.

“The business has acted quickly to identify the infection within the flock and are working closely with Agriculture Victoria officers to contain the outbreak.”

Bird flu is highly transmittable between birds but doesn’t spread easily to humans, although it has a high mortality rate when people do catch it.

Authorities are urging  poultry and bird owners across the state to remain on alert.