Lana Pofam, the Minister of Agriculture and Food, issued the following statement in response to a confirmed outbreak of avian influenza on a farm in Okanagan.
“With the recent confirmation of avian influenza in several US provinces and states, the Department of Agriculture and Food is working closely with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and BC poultry producers to ensure that enhanced measures for prevention and readiness for protection of bird flocks in BC
“Despite these efforts, the CFIA has confirmed the presence of avian influenza on a farm in the North Okanagan Regional District. The CFIA leads the investigation and response, with provincial support for testing, mapping, monitoring and disposal. The ministry is also activating its emergency operations center and will work with the CFIA, manufacturers, industry and other stakeholders to respond effectively to this outbreak and any others that may arise in British Columbia.
“All poultry producers, including backyard poultry owners, are advised to increase their biosecurity practices and be vigilant and watch for signs of avian influenza in their flocks.
“To further protect farmers and prevent the spread of avian influenza in British Columbia, the deputy chief veterinarian has issued an order requiring all commercial poultry flocks in the province with more than 100 birds to be relocated indoors by the end of spring. migration in May.
“If avian influenza is suspected, poultry producers should contact a local veterinarian or the provincial animal health center immediately for advice and information.
“The risk to public health is extremely low and there is no risk to food safety.
“I know this is an incredibly stressful time for our poultry and egg producers. They have endured so much in the last two years. They have shown that they are really resilient. We are here to help and we will work together to overcome this. “
Find out more:
To contact the BC Animal Health Center, call 1 800 661-9903 or send an email to PAHB@gov.bc.ca
Information for the Ministry of Agriculture and Food on avian influenza, including what to watch for and information on testing: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/industry/agriculture-seafood/animals-and-crops/ animal- health / notifiable diseases / avian diseases
Information from the CFIA on the current state of avian influenza in Canada: https://inspection.canada.ca/animal-health/terrestrial-animals/diseases/reportable/avian-influenza/response-to-detections-of-highly-pathogenic – avian- / eng / 1640207916497/1640207916934
Order of the Deputy Chief Veterinarian:
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