A wood duck at the George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary in Delta, B.C. Photo: Dr. Janet Hill.
A wood duck at the George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary in Delta, B.C. Photo: Dr. Janet Hill.

May 2023

Avian influenza virus (AIV) is a contagious viral infection that can affect domestic and wild birds throughout the world.

Be on the lookout for avian influenza

Avian influenza virus (AIV) is a contagious viral infection that can affect domestic and wild birds throughout the world. In 2022, highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) was a serious concern in wild birds, domestic food-producing flocks (chickens, turkeys, geese, ducks and quails) and pet birds. Due
to the movement of wild birds and migratory patterns, avian influenza can spread to domestic flocks. Symptoms include lack of energy, nervousness, coughing, swelling or sudden death.

If you see suspected cases of the disease in wild or domestic birds, visit the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) website to identify the designated authority in your province. In Saskatchewan, contact the province’s Ministry of Environment Inquiry Centre (1-800-567-4224).

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