The news comes after the Canadian Food Inspection Service confirmed that it has HPAI samples from a goose found near Elrose. This follows HPAI detection in poultry and wild birds in the United States and other provinces.
With the news, the provincial Ministry of Agriculture reminds poultry producers to follow biosecurity protocols to keep their flocks free of disease. This includes measures such as keeping wild birds away from poultry and their food and water, restricting visitors and monitoring the birds’ health. Producers who have concerns about the health of their herds should contact their veterinarian immediately and if HPAI is suspected they should also contact the CFIA.
Most strains of avian influenza do not cause obvious signs of disease in wild birds. This particular strain, however, is said to have resulted in the death of some wild birds, including snow geese, Canadian geese and predators.
There is a low risk of transmitting HPAI to humans, however, reminding people not to touch dead birds or other wild animals with their bare hands. Goggles and masks are recommended and hands should be washed thoroughly before and after with soap and water. Birds should be placed in a plastic bag before being tested.
The Ministry of Agriculture explained that this HPAI strain does not pose a risk to food safety. Food safety and hygiene precautions should be taken when preparing wild game and hunters should avoid eating birds that are clearly ill.
