The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is investigating a recent outbreak of avian influenza (AI) in the Thompson-Nicola Regional District (TNRD) of British Columbia. This incident is part of a larger trend, as British Columbia has seen a series of AI outbreaks throughout November.
Overview of the CFIA’s Findings
The CFIA categorizes commercial premises for poultry based on specific criteria. A premise is considered commercial if it meets one of the following:
- It raises birds under Canada’s supply management system.
- It operates outside this system with more than 1,000 birds or over 300 anseriformes for sale or breeding.
This suggests that the recent outbreak may involve a small-scale farm, although confirmation is still pending. Notably, the outbreak is unlikely to have occurred in Kamloops or other municipalities within the TNRD.
Recent Statistics and Comparisons
In November alone, the CFIA has recorded 17 avian flu outbreaks across British Columbia. Most of these have been concentrated in commercial poultry operations, particularly in the Fraser Valley. The distribution of outbreaks since October 14 is as follows:
- 11 outbreaks in Chilliwack
- 8 outbreaks in Abbotsford
- 4 outbreaks in Langley Township
- 2 outbreaks in Summerland
- 1 outbreak each in Salmon Arm, Richmond, Pitt Meadows, the Regional District of Nanaimo, and the Cariboo Regional District.
- 1 outbreak in TNRD.
Since October, British Columbia’s poultry population has suffered significantly, with an estimated 8.8 million birds affected due to the virus or culling measures. Earlier this year, five outbreaks were reported in Abbotsford, but these are no longer considered active.
Avian Influenza: A Public Health Concern
Avian influenza, commonly termed “bird flu,” is a contagious viral infection that impacts various food-producing birds, as well as pet birds and wild species. The CFIA urges the public to report any suspected cases within their flocks.
For those who encounter sick or dead wild birds, the appropriate course of action is to contact the provincial Wild Bird Reporting Line at 1-866-431-2473 or connect with the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative. The CFIA continues monitoring the situation closely and encourages vigilance from bird owners and the public alike.
