This Version Posted: April 14, 2023
Take Caution Around Wild Birds and Animals as Avian Influenza Cases Increase
Spring migration presents dangers to domestic and wild birds nevertheless, danger to human beings stays low.
PORT HOPE, ON (April 14, 2023) – The Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit (HKPR District Health Unit) is advising the general public to utilize care around wild birds and poultry as cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), likewise called “avian flu”, boost with spring migration occurring throughout the province.
On April 4, 2023, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency and the Public Health Agency of Canada verified that a domestic dog in Oshawa, Ontario evaluated positive for extremely pathogenic bird influenza. According to the release, the dog was discovered to have actually been contaminated with bird influenza after chewing on a wild goose, and passed away after establishing scientific indications.
Avian influenza, a type “A” influenza infection, is an infectious viral infection that can impact all types of birds however can, in some cases likewise, contaminate mammals. While all bird types are prone to infection, the bird influenza infection has actually been mostly seen in migratory birds consisting of ducks, geese, swans, gulls and shorebirds. An increasing variety of cases of the present bird influenza A (H5N1) pressure have actually been reported in mammals that have actually been available in contact with contaminated birds. To date, there have actually been no verified cases of people being contaminated with H5N1 in Canada.
“Although there have been no reported cases of avian flu in our region to-date, it is important to understand the risks and ways to reduce transmission and protect the health of our pets, livestock and bird populations. The avian influenza virus has evolved differently around the world, and as thousands of birds return to our region from different areas, it creates more opportunities for this virus to change and adapt further.”
said Dr. Natalie Bocking, Medical Officer of Health with the HKPR District Health Unit.
Reduce your Risk and Potential Exposure to Avian Flu
It is very important to be mindful, notified and observant of domestic and wild birds. The HKPR District Health Unit is suggesting the general public take care and help in reducing transmission by following these standards:
- Avoid direct contact or handling of ill or dead wild birds or animals. If handling is required, use gloves, position the dead animal in a doubled plastic bag and connect it closed then clean your hands completely.
- Contact your regional town and the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative online or by calling 1-800-567-2033 to report ill or dead birds/animals.
- Keep kids and family animals (consisting of poultry) far from wild birds, feces, and bird events websites.
- Keep animal birds and cats inside your home, and dogs on leash to restrict the capacity for an encounter with a contaminated animal.
- Consider eliminating or restricting household bird feeders, bird baths and duck ponds to minimize possible transmission. If elimination is not possible, decontaminate with a bleach and water service (one part bleach and 9 parts water) a minimum of every 2 weeks, and clean hands completely with soap and water after cleansing.
- Households that raise yard chickens, own animal birds or keep other flocks, need to monitor them for indications of bird influenza and follow preventive actions recommended by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.
Hunters and trappers need to likewise take care when dealing with wild birds and some mammals, specifically when field dressing, plucking and cleaning up video game. Following biosecurity measures and safe handling and cleaning guidelines such as using rubber gloves, utilizing a well-ventilated location and cleaning your hands and surface areas, can considerably minimize your danger of direct exposure to bird influenza. Furthermore, it is vital that people do not deal with or consume any animals that seem ill or that have actually passed away from unidentified causes.
“Avian flu is not a threat to food safety; however, you should always use proper cooking times, temperatures and handling techniques with all poultry, meat and eggs to eliminate pathogens includes bacteria and viruses. Be vigilant, be aware and reach out to a medical professional, if needed.”
said Richard Ovcharovich, Manager of Environmental Health with the HKPR District Health Unit.
If you end up being ill with influenza signs (e.g., fever, cough, aching throat) within 10 days after dealing with wild birds or other wildlife, see your healthcare supplier and notify your doctor that you have actually touched with wildlife.
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For media queries contact:
Ashley Beaulac, Manager of Communication Services, HKPR District Health Unit, 1-866-888-4577 ext. 1212, [email protected]
Richard Ovcharovich, Manager of Environmental Health, HKPR District Health Unit, 1-866-888-4577 ext. 1423
