Canada is actively addressing the challenges posed by outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), particularly subtype H5, which has affected both domestic and wild bird populations across the country. Fortunately, the strain of HPAI associated with recent diagnoses in US dairy cattle has not yet been detected in Canadian poultry flocks.
In February, a notable outbreak of H5N5 avian influenza was reported at a backyard layer poultry farm in Newfoundland and Labrador. Subsequently, in June, several provinces witnessed new cases, with British Columbia experiencing the most significant impact, affecting approximately 8.7 million birds. In light of these developments, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) emphasizes the necessity of stringent biosecurity measures to mitigate further transmission.
Strategic Measures for Control
Canada has instituted several measures to curb the spread of avian influenza:
- Enhanced surveillance and monitoring to facilitate quick response times during outbreaks.
- Strengthened biosecurity protocols that include improved sanitation and disinfection practices on farms.
- Imposition of movement and trade restrictions to control the spread via bird movement and commercial transactions.
- Increased testing protocols and mandatory reporting to better detect and track infections.
Public Health Considerations
As of now, there is no evidence to suggest that cooked poultry products pose any risk of transmitting the virus to humans. The situation is under close surveillance, and the public is considered to be at low risk overall.
