Avian influenza

Avian influenza

Avian influenza (AI) is a highly contagious viral disease that circulates among wild birds globally. Wild aquatic birds (Anseriformes and Charadriiformes) constitute the primary natural reservoir with periodic introductions into domestic poultry. The agent is an Orthomyxovirus type A of subtypes H5 or H7.

The virus typically infects domestic poultry, such as chickens ( Gallus gallus domesticus ), turkeys, ducks, quail, and geese, as well as several types of wild birds. Migratory birds are recognized as the reservoir of the virus, most of the time without symptoms and the virus is usually low pathogenic. Some AI viruses can also affect various mammals, including humans.

Highly pathogenic avian influenza subtype H5N1 has been spreading in Canada and the United States since November 2021. This Eurasian strain has a significant impact on the poultry industry causing high mortality rates in commercial flocks and resulting in trade disruptions. The EQCMA is monitoring the situation closely and working together with its members to mobilize producers and stakeholders in the Quebec poultry industry in order to put in place all possible measures to prevent the introduction of the disease into the herd and to react quickly if cases arise.

Good biosecurity practices are essential to prevent the introduction and spread of disease.

For a detailed description of these diseases and control measures, please consult the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) website as well as the EQCMA document Detecting notifiable diseases in poultry .

For more information on avian flu, visit the CFIA website: Avian influenza (bird flu)