Recent Detection of Highly Pathogenic
Avian Influenza (H5N1) in Canada
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has advised the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) of the confirmed presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) in Canada.
Spring migration has driven the spread of avian influenza (AI) into new areas of Canada. Veterinarians should be on the lookout for signs of AI, including in backyard flocks.
Avian influenza is not a public health concern for people who are not in routine contact with infected birds. People working with poultry should take additional precautions and are strongly encouraged to follow all public health guidelines and maintain strict biosecurity. The virus can affect humans on rare occasions and it is almost always acquired through direct contact with infected birds or contaminated environments. Most human cases are limited to mild respiratory disease.
Vigilance is required in protecting against the transmission of the avian influenza virus while avoiding handling sick or dead birds. It is extremely important for bird owners, including those with backyard flocks of all sizes and species, as well as commercial poultry producers, to follow strict biosecurity measures, such as:
- Keeping poultry, domestic birds, and coops away from areas frequented by wild birds like water and feeders
- Regularly cleaning water, feeders, coops, and clothing
- Keeping new birds separate for a period of time to monitor health
- Monitoring the signs and report suspected cases to CFIA immediately
The latest information on current and recent investigations on AI detections by province can be found on the CFIA website.
