Bird flu found in Gander Bay poultry, food inspection agency says

Avian influenza has been found in Newfoundland and Labrador, according to a news release from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency Thursday.

The agency declared a primary control zone in Gander Bay, and is estimating that about 400 birds have been affected since the virus was first found in the province in 2021. 

Two suspected cases have been reported this week.

The latest bird illness was found in a group of non-commercial poultry in central Newfoundland. The CFIA's website says avian influenza is not a food safety concern, but human infection is possible in rare cases.

Avian influenza is more likely to kill poultry like chicken and turkeys than wild birds. 

Farmers and commercial poultry producers are encouraged to keep their flock away from wild birds, clean and disinfect equipment and maintain controlled access to poultry houses. 

Country Ribbon, which produces poultry raised in the province, sent a statement to Radio-Canada that says, "the recent confirmation of avian influenza in Newfoundland is a critical reminder of the importance of the enhanced bio-security measures that are in place across poultry operations in the province."

"CRI is closely monitoring the situation in the province and remains fully committed to taking all necessary precautions to safeguard our team, the animals in our care, and the operations across our organization."

The CFIA is asking anyone who finds sick or dead birds to report to the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture. 

The department says signs of bird flu include:

• Lack of energy, movement or appetite
• Decreased egg production
• Swelling around the head, neck and eyes
• Coughing, gasping for air or sneezing
• Nervous signs, tremors or lack of coordination
• Diarrhea
• Sudden death

Provincial officials also recommend reporting signs of illness to the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative.

There is no treatment for avian influenza.

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