April 13, 2022
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has confirmed cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) in Ontario.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs is taking steps to limit the spread of what is commonly known as ‘bird flu.’ The Honourable Lisa M. Thompson, Minister of Agriculture, has issued a Minister’s Order under the Animal Health Act, 2009, to limit the commingling of birds from different locations across the province, in order to reduce transmission.
The Order, which came into effect on April 9th, temporarily prohibits events where birds commingle, such as bird shows, bird sales/swaps and portions of fairs where birds are exhibited. The Ministry says that temporarily reducing direct contact between birds from different locations will limit the spread of avian influenza and protect flock health. The Order will be in place until May 9th, but may be extended.
Cases of avian influenza (H5N1) have been found in nine provinces across Canada and numerous US states. The Ministry says that avian influenza is not a threat to food safety, but impacts domesticated and wild birds. Ontario poultry and eggs are safe to eat, according to the Ministry, when proper handling and cooking takes place.
People working with poultry should take extra precautions and follow all public health guidelines, including maintaining strict biosecurity.
The Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs will continue to monitor this developing situation and may implement additional measures.
See below for more information and resources:
OMAFRA avian influenza webpage
OMAFRA biosecurity recommendations