Avian influenza (Bird Flu) detections are increased at this time in wild and domestic birds with periodic cases in wild animals. There have been outbreaks of avian influenza in commercial and non-commercial poultry in BC. Overall, the current strain of avian influenza A(H5N1) circulating in birds in North America poses low risk to the public.
People who come into contact with sick birds or other animals have a higher risk of infection and should take precautions. This includes people who work or spend time near infected commercial and domestic poultry as well as other sick birds or mammals.
Avian influenza is a virus that easily spreads from bird to bird. It makes birds sick and can cause them to die. While it mostly affects birds like chickens, turkeys, geese, ducks and swans, it can affect other animals too, including pets.
Avian influenza can also infect people. The public also has a role to play in staying safe.
- Do not touch sick or dead birds or animals or their droppings.
- Do not bring sick wild animals or birds into your home.
- Keep your pets away from sick animals and birds and their feces.
- Report sick or dead animals and birds to the proper authorities.
If you get exposed to a sick bird or animal, you can get sick, too.
You can get sick if you touch sick birds or animals, then touch your eyes, nose, mouth or face. The symptoms are similar to the regular (human) flu.
If avian influenza spreads among people, the virus can change and spread more easily, making more people sick.
By protecting yourself, you also protect others.
In addition to the role of the public, municipal employees have a role to play in helping to understand the spread of avian influenza including:
• Surveillance of avian influenza in sick and dead wildlife.
• Reducing opportunities for members of the public and their pets to encounter sick or dead animals.
HOW TO REPORT:
Reporting sick or dead animals and birds to the proper authorities is something we all can do. Do not report to the Village. The proper authorities are the Provincial Government.
- To report dead wild birds, please call 1-866-431-BIRD (2473)
- To report dead wild mammals (foxes, racoon, skunks) please call BC Wildlife Program 250-751-7246 or after hours contact your nearest wildlife rehabilitator
- To report dead domestic animals (pets, poultry and livestock) Canadian Food Inspection Agency
For more information on backyard wild bird health and what to do, visit this BC Government page on Bird Health. For more information on bird flu, go to Canada.ca/Avian-flu
If You Must Handle a Sick or Dead Animal or Bird, Do Not Touch It.
