Another outbreak of avian influenza was found in a small flock on the island of Gabriola.
The area confirmed on Thursday that a herd a day earlier in the backyard of the island had tested positive for the highly pathogenic H5N1 virus.
This is the second outbreak found on Vancouver Island after a small flock tested positive in the Comox Valley more than a month ago.
Nanaimo’s regional district says the room where the virus was found was quarantined in late April after it was identified as a possible bird flu shelter.
“The CFIA and the Ministry of Agriculture and Food of the British Republic continue to implement additional measures to address the situation,” the statement said.
CHEK News contacted the CFIA and the Ministry for additional information.
The BC Bird Association says that this backyard flock was not protected in the same way as commercial flocks.
“They were not well protected. They have been in contact with other wild birds and migratory waterfowl and those we know are carriers of the virus and most of those whose owner has fallen ill and failed, “said Ray Nickel.
Somerset Farm, located on Gabriola Island, says it has been quarantined because another farm on the island is dealing with the outbreak.
“For now, you can still come to the store to buy meat, but not eggs. When we learn more about the restrictions, we will let you know, “said the farm on Facebook.
The farm usually accepts 500 turkeys or young turkeys this week to be bred for Thanksgiving, but the outbreak of bird flu in a small flock of chickens in a backyard not far away puts them facing a number of restrictions.
“It’s sad for us because for the first time since 1948 we haven’t set up a flock of turkeys, so at this point it’s limiting the flock to gratitude. We hope that the restrictions on our Christmas flock will be lifted in time, “said Alexa Bulton, owner of the Somerset farm.
Most outbreaks are likely to come from contact with infected migratory wild birds, the ministry said.
He asked owners of small flocks or backyard flocks to take measures to prevent their birds from coming into contact with wild birds, reduce human access to the flock and increase the cleaning, disinfection and disinfection of all objects when entering areas where flocks are accommodated.
“Do not remove sick birds from the property. If the flock suffers from any unexplained clinical signs or increased mortality, bird owners should contact a professional for help and sampling, the district said.
According to the CFIA, signs of bird flu include:
- decline in egg production, many of which have a soft shell or no shell
- diarrhea
- hemorrhagic hemorrhages
- high and sudden mortality
- silence and severe depression
- swelling of the skin under the eyes
- the rods and combs become swollen and clogged
The BC Poultry Association emphasizes that this is an animal disease, especially affecting birds.
“This is very serious for those of us who raise poultry, but it is not a problem for human health and so it does not affect food,” said Nickel.
Nickel says the best way to support producers through these outbreaks is to keep buying their products.
Including the latest outbreak, there are 15 active outbreaks of avian influenza in British Columbia, according to the CFIA.
Editorial rules report an error
Add Comment