Avian
Influenza, often called "bird flu”, is on the rise across North America.
Bird Flu is a viral infection that affects domestic & wild birds, including
food-producing birds like chickens, turkeys & ducks. This disease is highly
contagious and when detected in domestic birds, and requires large-scale flock
depopulation. This can lead to significant financial losses for producers and
industry, with substantial impact to the supply chain.
How does it spread?
The disease can easily spread to birds through contact with infected poultry & poultry products. Wild migratory birds may also carry avian influenza, which can be passed on to poultry farms. Humans can also pass on the disease through contaminated clothing, footwear, vehicles, equipment, feed & water.
The disease can easily spread to birds through contact with infected poultry & poultry products. Wild migratory birds may also carry avian influenza, which can be passed on to poultry farms. Humans can also pass on the disease through contaminated clothing, footwear, vehicles, equipment, feed & water.
Controlling & Preventing Spread
Poultry producers play a vital role in surveillance & prevention of bird flu. Strong on-farm biosecurity practices can help keep farms, workers, and animals safe. Learn more through Canada’s Bird Flu Toolkit for Poultry Producers.
Importance of Premises Identification
Traceability is another key factor in stopping the spread of bird flu. The Premises Identification (PID) system is a critical way that Alberta plans for, tracks, controls, and prevents spread of animal diseases. It’s critical that all livestock owners (including large-scale, small-scale, and even hobby farmers) obtain & update their Premises Identification (PID) number. Keeping your PID contact information current is crucial to ensure that you are quickly notified in the case of a disease outbreak.
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