Canberra, Aug. 3 (SANA)Australia has confirmed its first mass deaths of wild birds linked to theH5strain of avianinfluenza, prompting authorities to warn of an increased risk to wildlife as they expand disease surveillance efforts.

Agriculture Minister Julie Collins said laboratory testing byAustralia‘s national science agency confirmed the presence of the H5 virus in sick and dead wild birds found near the town of Cape Jaffa in South Australia, according to Reuters.

Collins described the outbreak as Australia’s first confirmed mass mortality event associated with the virus and said it was “deeply concerning,” warning that the disease could spread further and affect more wild animals.

Australian authorities have intensified monitoring and testing of wild animals and livestock since the virus was first detected on the mainland last month.

The country has confirmed 74 cases of the virus to date. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the government would continue taking all necessary measures to contain the outbreak.kA.ABD