Avian Influenza Confirmed at Quebec Duck Farm
A duck farm in Knowlton, Quebec, has recently confirmed a case of avian influenza, leading to prompt containment measures by the authorities. This isolated case was reported by the farm, operated by Canards du Lac Brome, earlier this week.
Immediate Response and Containment Measures
In response to the outbreak, Quebec’s Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food has mandated the humane culling of all birds on the affected site. The farm has been placed under strict quarantine, and specialized teams in protective gear are actively disinfecting equipment and vehicles that move in and out of the premises. The company is collaborating closely with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and provincial health authorities to effectively manage the situation.
Public Health Perspective
Health officials have reassured the public that the avian influenza virus does not compromise the safety of cooked poultry, eggs, or pasteurized milk. The current risk to the general public remains low, as the transmission to humans is rare and typically occurs in individuals who work closely with infected birds or environments contaminated by the virus.
Historical Context
This incident is not the first encounter with the virus for Canards du Lac Brome. In 2022, the farm faced a significant outbreak that resulted in the culling of 150,000 birds and the temporary layoff of 300 employees. With the current case marking the 60th instance of avian influenza in poultry farms across Quebec since the detection of the highly pathogenic H5N1 strain in 2022, the situation remains concerning for local farmers.
Ongoing Vigilance and Monitoring
While 2025 has seen only one other farm affected thus far, the virus continues to circulate among wild bird populations. Authorities urge poultry farmers and owners of backyard flocks to remain vigilant for any signs of illness in their birds. Symptoms to watch for include:
- Reduced energy and appetite
- Decreased egg production
- Soft or shell-less eggs
- Swelling beneath the eyes
For further guidance on prevention and reporting, stakeholders are encouraged to consult the resources available on the CFIA’s website.
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