Bird Flu Cases on the Rise in Ontario
Wildlife experts warn of increased infections among birds ahead of spring migration
Avian influenza cases are rising across Ontario this winter, sparking concerns about how the virus will spread during the upcoming spring migration. With over 1.1 million domestic birds already affected, experts are closely monitoring the impact on both farmed and wild bird populations.
What is Avian Flu?
Avian influenza, or “bird flu” is a highly contagious virus caused by strains of the influenza A virus. It primarily affects birds but can occasionally infect mammals, including humans, though such cases are rare.
A More Widespread Outbreak This Winter
Dr. Brian Stevens, a veterinary pathologist at the University of Guelph, stated that Ontario has seen an increase in cases over the past month, with infections more widely distributed across the southern part of the province compared to last winter.
“Last year we had a large mortality event in Canada geese in Kingston and we had a few smaller mortality events in geese throughout southern Ontario as well as some out in the eastern portion of the province in crows and birds of prey. This year, the mortality events have been more spread out across the southern portion of the province, so I’d say we have had more cases this winter just based on how spread out it has been.”
Dr. Stevens also noted that the winter of 2023 had fewer reported cases beyond the fall migration period.
“The winter of 2023, I don’t recall getting many cases beyond the fall migration in December and into early January, I believe 2023 was relatively slow through most of January and February.”
What to Expect This Spring
Avian flu cases typically rise during spring and fall migrations as birds travel and congregate in large numbers. However, the number of cases can vary from year to year.
"Last year, the spring migration period did not lead to as many cases as we saw in 2022 and 2023, but with how busy our winter has been this year, I'm unsure what this spring will bring us," said Dr. Stevens.
Given the current increase in winter cases, experts are closely monitoring the situation to see how the virus may impact bird populations during the upcoming migration season.
Are Humans at Risk?
A common question on many people’s minds is: can this affect me? According to Dr. Stevens, the risk to humans from avian flu in the environment is extremely low.
“On the human health side, the risk to humans in the environment with these sick birds is extremely low and the larger risk is if somebody were to approach/handle a sick wild animal, so we recommend against that and instead if you have any concerns for a sick wild animal, then you should contact their local municipality/humane society or a wildlife rehabilitation centre.”
For those worried about poultry products, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) reassures that avian influenza is not a food safety concern. Their website states: “Avian influenza is not a food safety concern. There is no evidence to suggest that eating cooked poultry or eggs could transmit the virus to humans.”
Precautions to Keep Yourself Safe from Avian Flu
According to the Government of Canada, infected birds may exhibit signs such as:
lack of energy or movement
nervousness, tremors, or lack of coordination
swelling around the head, neck, and eyes
coughing, gasping for air, or sneezing
diarrhea
sudden death
If you encounter a sick or dead bird, do not handle it. Instead, report the case to the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative or your local animal services department.
For photographers and avid outdoors enthusiasts, Karen McDonald, Senior Manager, Restoration & Infrastructure at Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA), advises:
Avoiding close contact with birds, especially in known outbreak areas.
Cleaning boots, gear, and tripods thoroughly between locations to prevent cross-contamination.
Keeping pets on a leash to prevent contact with bird droppings or carcasses.
Washing hands thoroughly after any outdoor excursions in bird-heavy areas.
The TRCA recommends decontaminating equipment using a bleach solution (25ml household bleach per 2L of water), followed by a scrub with hot water and disinfectant.
Can we do anything?
With avian flu now widespread across the world, efforts to combat the virus in wild bird populations aren’t feasible, according to Dr. Stevens.
“These are wild birds that are moving from place to place and congregating in large numbers. This virus is now spread across North America (and the globe), so there isn't really much we can do to help our wildlife populations (aside from the typical recommendations to support wildlife in general by protecting key environmental areas and other things along those lines).”
While avian flu itself is beyond human control, supporting wildlife conservation efforts remains crucial. Protecting key habitats, reducing environmental stressors, and advocating for conservation policies all contribute to the overall health and resilience of bird populations.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) provides a public dashboard where the public can track confirmed cases of avian flu in wildlife across Canada.
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