Avian Influenza (AI) is a disease caused by a virus that primarily infects domestic poultry and wild birds such as geese, ducks, and shore birds. Each year, there is a “bird flu” season, and some forms of the “bird flu” are worse than others. Wild birds, especially waterfowl, are a natural reservoir for mild strains of AI. Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 is a strain known to kill both wild birds and commercial poultry.
| Current Status of Avian Influenza in Ontario |
In March 2022, HPAI H5N1 virus has been detected in Ontario in wild and commercial poultry. This same strain of the virus has also been found in many other jurisdictions across the world, including in other Canadian provinces and American states. Its spread has been primarily attributed to the migration of infected waterfowl.
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| Reporting Sick or Dead Birds |
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If you see a wild bird, including waterfowl, that is sick, injured or dead, do not touch it. Report any sick or dead birds (including waterfowl), to the Ontario Regional Centre of the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative at 1-866-673-4781 or via the online reporting tool. Signs of avian influenza in birds include:
If you observe your backyard poultry to be sick or dying, please call your veterinarian or the Canadian Food Inspection Agency at 226-217-8022, 8 am to 6 pm (EST), or email cfia.ontsurveillanceanddiagnostics-survetdiagnostiques.acia@inspection.gc.ca. |
| How to Stop the Spread of Avian Influenza |
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To help prevent the spread of Avian Influenza, residents are encouraged to: - Report sick or dead birds to the agencies listed above; - Do not touch or feed wild birds by hand; - Clean backyard feeders and baths regularly using a weak solution of domestic bleach and water; - Separate domestic and wild birds where possible; For bird owners, the CFIA’s 5 tips to protecting your flock from bird flu are: - Prevent contact with wild birds and other animals. - Frequently clean poultry coops, waterers, feeders, your clothing and your boots. - Spot the signs of avian influenza and report early to a veterinarian or the CFIA. - Limit exposure to visitors. - Separate birds – keep birds, their water and food away from wild birds. |
| Avian Influenza in Humans |
| The HPAI H5N1 virus does not easily cross from birds to humans and the current strain has been listed as lower than normal concern for spread to people. However, transmission to humans has occurred when people have had close contact with infected birds or heavily contaminated environments. Due to the potential for human infection, it is recommended that people working with poultry suspected of being infected with avian influenza, or in contact with such poultry, wear protective clothing. This includes, face masks, goggles, gloves and boots. The Public Health Agency Canada also provides advice on precautions to be taken when handling wild birds. As is always recommended, members of the public should not handle sick or dead wild birds or other wildlife, as they may be infected with diseases that can spread to humans. Pets should also be kept away from sick or dead wildlife.
If you are concerned about a possible exposure, please contact Grey Bruce Public Health.
Public Health’s follow up is guided by this following Ministry of Health resource. |
| Recommendations for Hunters of Wild Birds |
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Exposure to avian influenza can occur when handling infected wild birds, especially when field dressing, plucking and cleaning game. In 2022, some wild mammals (e.g., foxes, skunks, mink) have been found to be infected with avian influenza A(H5N1); as such, hunters and trappers should also be careful when handling these animals. Precautionary measures should be taken to reduce the risk of exposure to zoonotic diseases, including avian influenza. The following recommendations should be followed when handling wild birds and other susceptible wildlife: - Do not handle or eat sick birds or birds that have died from unknown causes. - Avoid direct contact with blood, feces, and respiratory secretions of all wild birds. - Do not eat, drink, or smoke while cleaning game. - Work outside whenever possible. - Wear a medical mask, preferably an N-95 or KN-95, when cleaning game. - Wear dish gloves or latex gloves when handling or cleaning game. Wash gloves, hands, and clothing with soap and warm water immediately after you have finished. Thoroughly clean contaminated surfaces on tools and work surfaces with hot, soapy water and then disinfect the area using a household disinfectant. Immediately remove and wash clothing that may be contaminated with blood, feces or respiratory secretions. - Cook pieces and cuts of game meat to an internal temperature of 71°C (160°F). - Whole birds should be cooked to an internal temperature of 82°C (180°F). - If you become ill while handling birds or shortly thereafter, see your doctor. Inform your doctor that you have been in contact with wild birds. For more information, visit: Wild birds and avian influenza – Handling guidelines – Canada.ca |
| Food Safety |
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There is no evidence to suggest that fully cooked game meat, organs or eggs are a source of avian influenza infection for people. Cooking your game meat, organs and eggs eliminates foodborne pathogens including bacteria and viruses.
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| Additional Information and Resources |
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| Key Facts About Avian Influenza |
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City of Owen Sound and the Avian Influenza |
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On Monday, September 19, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) confirmed positive test results for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N1) from the sampled domestic species in the Harrison Park bird sanctuary. |
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