Canada

A confirmed case of bird flu has been reported in Okanagan

New case of avian influenza confirmed in Kelowna, British Columbia

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has confirmed that a small flock of poultry in the backyard has tested positive for the highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus.

The property has been quarantined by the CFIA, and the ministry has notified producers within a 12-kilometer radius.

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Two weeks ago, a flock of poultry in northern Okanagan also tested positive for highly pathogenic bird flu.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Food of British Columbia said it was working closely with the CFIA and poultry producers in the province to ensure that prevention and preparedness measures were in place.

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The CFIA urges owners of small herds or backyard herds to be vigilant and put in place preventive measures.

Some of the agency’s proposals include reducing contact between poultry and wild birds, reducing human access to the flock and increasing disinfection.

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Testing of samples collected through the BC Wild Bird Surveillance Program for avian influenza found that two bald eagles in the province were also positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza.

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Avian influenza is a federally regulated disease.

The CFIA manages the response with provincial support for testing, mapping, monitoring and disposal.

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