Two more poultry herds in British Colombia tested positive for the H5N1 avian influenza virus on May 4, and the Animal Welfare Group asked the general public to temporarily remove the bird flu box in the backyard. I am calling to.
Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) Said The two herds in the cities of Kelowna and Richmond were the third and fourth herds confirmed to be infected with the virus.
According to CFIA, the infection appears to be due to contact with infected migratory birds.
The first confirmed case of H5N1 in British Columbia poultry was North Okanagan In mid-April.Flock of the other two poultry In Kelowna When Central Coutoney In addition, the H5N1 virus was detected in late April.
The CFIA has kept the infected facility under quarantine, but authorities have called on owners of small or backyard herds to be vigilant and take appropriate precautions.
“Countermeasures include eliminating or reducing the chances of poultry encountering wild birds, reducing human access to the herd, and all items (including clothing and footwear) when entering the area where the herd is housed. ) Includes cleaning, disinfection, and improved hygiene. “
Some wild birds have been tested positive for the H5 strain of the avian influenza virus in the Vanderhoof region, Lac La Hatch, Bowen Island, Delta, and Vancouver.
On May 5, the British Columbia Animal Cruelty Prevention Association (BCSPCA), an animal welfare organization, called on the general public to easily unload bird feeders in the backyard. Through feces and respiratory secretions. “
“Bird feeders promote the spread of the disease by encouraging unnatural bird feeders and attracting other wildlife, including predators and rodents. Fallen seeds are also particularly bad. It’s the cause of the disease. When birds feed from the ground, they are also exposed to the feces that collect under the feeding box, “the group said. news release..
“The presence of bird feeders and baths can also increase the risk of transmitting the virus among nearby animals such as backyard chickens and turkeys.”
The H5N1 strain of avian influenza is considered highly pathogenic and causes serious illness and death in birds.
“Sick birds can appear lethargic, abnormally” fluffy “, runny nose, excessive tears in the eyes, and swollen heads and eyelids,” BCSPCA said.
According to BCSPCA, hummingbird feeders are species-specific and are currently at the lowest risk due to the limited number of birds visiting, but regular cleaning and nectar to prevent the development of deadly fungi. Is recommended to be replaced.
The group also notes that bird flu primarily affects birds, but in rare cases can cause disease in humans who are in close contact with infected birds.
The public is required to report sightings of sick or dead wild birds to the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative (1-800-567-2033).
“Don’t take dead birds to wildlife rehabilitation centers or veterinary clinics as they can’t be tested for illness,” BCSPCA said. He added that the carcass could be recovered. Further testing.
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Andrew Chen is a Toronto-based Epoch Times reporter.