The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has confirmed two more poultry flocks in B.C. have tested positive for the H5N1 strain of avian flu.
The new confirmed cases in Kelowna and Richmond mean there are now four small flocks that have tested positive for the virus and one commercial flock in the province.
According to a statement from B.C.’s Ministry of Agriculture and Food, the small flocks are presumed to have been infected through contact with a migrating wild bird.
Owners of small flocks are asked to take precautionary measures to prevent the spread. Measures include eliminating or reducing opportunities for poultry to encounter wild birds, reducing human access to the flock, and increased cleaning, disinfection and sanitization of all items when entering areas where flocks are housed.
The infected premises have been placed under quarantine, and poultry producers within a 12-kilometer radius have been informed of the positive result.
Producers are asked to keep an eye out for signs of avian flu in their flocks. The signs include:
- a drop in production of eggs, many of which are soft-shelled or shell-less
- diarrhea
- haemorrhages on the hock
- high and sudden mortality rate
- quietness and extreme depression
- swelling of the skin under the eyes
- wattles and combs become swollen and congested
In addition to the five flocks, wild birds have tested positive for H5 strains of Avian influenza in the Vanderhoof area, Lac la Hache, Bowen Island, Delta and Vancouver.
The Wild Bird Mortality Investigation Program accepts reports of dead wild birds from the public at its toll-free hotline at 1 866 431-2473.
Poultry producers are asked to call the nearest Canadian Food Inspection Agency Animal Health office or their veterinarian to report signs of illness.
READ MORE: Central Kootenay poultry flock confirmed to have H5N1 strain of avian flu
Laura Brougham
