A case of avian influenza was found in a poultry flock in Manitoba.
Manitoba Agriculture announced on Sunday that the Canadian Food Inspection Agency has confirmed the case – marking the first case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in a commercial herd in the province.
“This strain of avian influenza does not pose a risk to food safety. Poultry and Manitoba eggs are safe to eat when properly handled and cooked,” the province said.
There are no known cases of transmission of this strain of the virus from birds to humans in North America. Although the risk of transmitting bird flu to humans is low, the province said people should not touch dead birds or other wildlife with their bare hands.
SMALL STATES WITH “HIGH RISK” OF INFECTION, WARNES PROVINCE
The province said all poultry farms need to fill out an application in the Manitoba Agriculture premises identification program so that the province can quickly contact the producers if a case is found nearby.
However, the province said small herd owners should take extra precautions.
“Small herds are considered to be at high risk of HPAI infection as they often have access to open-air or free-range pens,” the provincial press release said.
“This means that there is a high probability of contact with wild birds that may be infected with HPAI.”
The province said small herd owners should:
- keep their birds closed indoors during the migration period of wild birds;
- avoid exhibitions or trade in birds:
- contact a veterinarian immediately if you notice increased sudden death or respiratory symptoms within the herd; and
- quarantine new birds for 21 days before integrating them into the flock.
Manitobaans are also asked to watch out for signs of avian influenza, including finding groups of six or more dead waterfowl (such as ducks or geese) or other birds, any number of dead birds of prey or bird scavengers (such as crows, crows or gulls). ) and groups of dead birds (more than 20) of any species.
If this is noticed, Manitoba residents are asked to call the toll-free advice line at 1-800-782-0076.
More information on avian influenza can be found online.
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