Alarming Bird Flu Outbreak Detected in New Brunswick

In a shocking revelation for wildlife enthusiasts and bird lovers, the Atlantic Wildlife Institute (AWI) in New Brunswick has confirmed its first case of bird flu for 2025. This alarming development has been described as both "heartbreaking and worrisome," underlining the serious implications this virus holds for the region’s avian population.

Details of the Confirmation

The confirmed case involves a red-breasted merganser found in Shediac. Discovered in a snowy backyard, the bird showed severe signs of illness upon arrival. Despite the AWI's stringent bio-security measures, the merganser, unfortunately, passed away shortly after being quarantined. Preliminary tests by the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative (CHWC) in Prince Edward Island returned positive results for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), with final verification expected from a national lab in Winnipeg.

Related Cases and Concerns

Notably, this discovery aligns with the concerning trend of bird deaths noted earlier this year, particularly among Canada Geese in P.E.I. Located just across the Northumberland Strait from the sick merganser, this incident adds to the growing concern as similar cases emerge in Newfoundland and Labrador, and within both wild and domestic birds in Nova Scotia. The virus continues to be highly active in the area, raising significant alarms regarding its spread.

Ongoing Crisis in Canada

Canada has been grappling with an ongoing bird flu crisis since 2021, resulting in the culling of approximately 15 million chickens. This outbreak is not isolated; the United States is also facing severe challenges related to the virus, with recent reports indicating substantial impacts on poultry farms and dairy herds. Alarmingly, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed at least one human fatality linked to the H5 strain of the virus this year. Although the risk of human transmission remains low, ongoing monitoring is essential due to the unpredictable nature of influenza viruses.

Public Warning and Precautions

In light of these developments, the AWI has issued a critical warning to the public. Citizens are urged to exercise caution around dying or dead birds and to report sightings to local wildlife authorities. If a sick bird must be retrieved, it's imperative to take safety precautions: wear gloves, use a disposable container, and thoroughly clean hands and any exposed clothing and vehicles afterward. Moreover, pet owners should keep their animals away from dying or deceased wildlife to prevent potential infections.

Guidelines for Domestic Bird Owners

For those who keep domestic birds, vigilance is crucial. Measures to protect these birds should include housing them indoors or under secure covers, maintaining clean environments, and using separate clothing and footwear when interacting with them. It is also vital to refrain from feeding local wildlife that may introduce dangers to domestic flocks.

Symptoms of Avian Flu

Symptoms of avian flu in affected birds often manifest as lethargy, difficulty standing, unresponsiveness, tremors, seizures, and respiratory distress. While one life was lost, the swift action of removing this bird from the environment may help mitigate the risk of further spread to other wildlife or domestic animals.

Stay Informed and Proactive

As the situation develops, staying informed and practicing proactive measures will be key to safeguarding both wildlife and public health. Further updates on this evolving story are expected in the coming days. Stay alert, and together we can combat this deadly virus!