Breaking News: Alarm as Suspected Bird Flu Case Emerges in Conception Bay South!

In a significant development for animal health, officials from the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture have identified a suspected case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5) in a domestic flock in Conception Bay South. This alarming situation has been reported to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), which is now spearheading the investigation.

Since its initial outbreak in late 2021, avian influenza has remained a persistent threat, particularly for the poultry industry. Following numerous outbreaks, the CFIA continues to monitor wild bird populations where the virus is known to circulate, posing an ongoing risk to domestic flocks.

To combat this outbreak, commercial poultry producers are adhering to stringent biosecurity protocols designed to minimize the risk of disease transmission. It’s crucial for both commercial operations and backyard poultry keepers—regardless of flock size—to familiarize themselves with the CFIA’s biosecurity recommendations. These steps are vital in safeguarding their birds from potential exposure to wild fowl, which are known carriers of the virus.

Signs of Avian Influenza to Watch For

Poultry owners should be vigilant and look out for the following symptoms, which may indicate an outbreak of avian influenza:

Lack of energy, movement, or appetite

Decrease in egg production

Swelling around the head, neck, and eyes

Respiratory issues such as coughing or sneezing

Nervous system signs, including tremors or lack of coordination

Diarrhea

Sudden death of birds

If you notice any of these signs in your flock, it is crucial to report it immediately to the CFIA at 709-772-4424 or contact the Provincial Animal Health Division through the following numbers:

St. John’s: 709-729-6879 (after-hours: 709-729-6899)