Public Health officials in Lambton County are investigating a confirmed case of H5N1 avian influenza in a poultry flock in the region.
Staff with Lambton Public Health are working closely with the Ontario Ministry of Health, the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness (OMAFA), and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) to contain, monitor, and respond to the situation.
No human cases of the virus have been reported at this time in Ontario or Lambton County, and only those individuals who have worked with the affected birds are considered at risk.
The H5N1 virus was first detected in Ontario in March 2022 with the same strain of the virus having been detected in many other jurisdictions around the world, including other Canadian provinces and American states. The spread of avian influenza has primarily been attributed to the migration of infected waterfowl.
“The risk of avian influenza for the general public remains low, however, the risk is higher for those who work with sick animals or in contaminated environments, such as farmers. Individuals should take precautions when interacting with and handling birds,” said Medical Officer of Health Dr. Karalyn Dueck.
Public Health officials are asking people to not handle live or dead wild birds or other wild animals as a precaution, and keep pets away from sick or dead animals. Any sick or dead birds should be reported to the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative by calling 1-800-673-4781.
Please visit the Ontario Ministry of Health’s website for more information on avian influenza.
