Avian Influenza Virus In Manitoba Confirmed To Be Low Pathogenic, Canada

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has confirmed that the virus detected in a commercial poultry operation in the Rural Municipality of Rockwood, Manitoba is low pathogenic H5N2 avian influenza.


Pathogenicity refers to the severity of the illness caused in birds.


The infected farm remains under quarantine, and all birds in the operation will be humanely destroyed within days. As a precautionary measure, the CFIA has also quarantined a local hatchery and two poultry farms that had significant contact with the infected farm.


Avian influenza viruses do not pose risks to food safety when poultry and poultry products are properly handled and cooked. Avian influenza rarely affects humans, unless they are of specific types and there has been close contact with infected birds.


Animal health and public health authorities from the Province of Manitoba, local poultry specialists and industry are actively collaborating on the response to avian influenza in the Manitoba poultry operation, and in supporting the producer.


For information on safe food handling, please visit here.


Source:

Canadian Food Inspection Agency