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Concern is on the rise as additional poultry farms in B.C. have been identified as having avian influenza, says the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. The CFIA is continuing their investigation into an outbreak of avian influenza in British Columbia's Fraser Valley. Their examination thus far has found two other farms to have the virus.
The CFIA said that it's not unexpected for the virus to migrate so easily to other farms as avian influenza is highly contagious between birds and can spread rapidly. Both of these farms are within close proximity to one another, as well as to the initial farms identified as part of the outbreak source. Traffic between farms in close proximity is common and may lead to further virus detection.
In addition, another barn sourced out as a potentially infected site has been confirmed to have the virus. As of now, a total of eight poultry farms are infected with avian influenza. However, the provincial government has notified CFIA of another farm where the virus is suspected.
CFIA suggests that testing is underway and results can be expected within a day. Poultry farmers are urged to take an active role in protecting their flocks by employing strict biosecurity measures on their property, as well as report any suspicious symptoms to the CFIA.
According to CFIA, birds have been humanely euthanized on four farms, and depopulation activities have begun on the fifth farm. The remaining farms will be depopulated in the coming days.
Resources have been mobilized to manage this situation, says the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. As well, they are continuing to work closely with the province, poultry farmers, and the poultry industry to manage this outbreak.
According to the World Health Organization, most avian influenza viruses do not infect humans however; there have been some cases where vulnerable individuals are susceptible. Most cases of contracting the disease stems from direct or indirect contact with infected live or dead poultry. There is no evidence that the virus can spread to people through properly cooked food.
The CFIA agrees with WHO in that the H5N2 avian virus poses minimal risks to humans when properly cooked and handled. Any illness contracted would be mild.
For more information on avian influenza and measures poultry farmers can take to protect their flocks, visit the CFIA website.
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