Poultry owners urged to protect flocks from Avian Influenza

Officials with the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture have reported a suspected case of avian influenza in a domestic flock in Conception Bay South to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.

Avian influenza continues to circulate in wild birds since an original outbreak in late 2021, with ongoing risk to the poultry sector.

All commercial and backyard poultry producers, regardless of the size of their flocks, are urged to review the Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s biosecurity measures to ensure flocks are protected from exposure to wild birds.

Signs of bird flu include lack of energy, movement or appetite, decreased egg production, swelling around the head, neck and eyes, coughing, gasping for air or sneezing, nervous signs, tremors or lack of coordination, diarrhea, and sudden death.

Report signs of illness immediately to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.

To keep poultry safe, prevent contact between poultry and wild birds or other animals, frequently clean coops, feeders and waterers, clothing and boots. Watch for and report signs of avian influenza and report, limit visitors to your property, and keep new birds separate from your flock for at least 30 days to avoid introducing disease.

Avian influenza viruses rarely infect humans, but people in close contact with infected birds may be at increased risk.