Scientists have confirmed the presence of what’s described as a ‘high pathogenicity’ avian influenza (HPAI) on Marion Island.

The HPAI version of bird flu is believed to have spread around the world since 2021.

The Environment Ministry says in a statement that samples collected between September and December last year were tested.

The tests followed an initial suspected case in mid-September last year. The ministry says, however, that the death rate of birds on Marion Island has reduced and this is a promising sign.

At least 31 bird species are believed to breed on the island located about one thousand kilometres South East of South Africa.