Avian Influenza

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Avian influenza (AI) is a contagious viral infection caused by the influenza virus Type "A", which can affect several species of food producing birds as well as pet birds and wild birds. AI viruses can be classified into two categories: low pathogenic (LPAI) and high pathogenic (HPAI) forms based on the severity of the illness caused in birds.

Avian influenza (AI) viruses, such as the highly pathogenic H5N1 virus present in Asia, may, on rare occasions, cause disease in humans. Transmission to humans has occurred by people having close contact with infected birds or heavily contaminated environments.

In Canada, avian influenza is a reportable disease under the Health of Animals Regulations, and all cases must be reported to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA).

News Releases / Information Bulletins

• 2008-10-06 - Information Session for Backyard Poultry Flock Owners
• 2008-06-12 - No High Risk Avian Influenza Viruses Found in Canada's Wild Birds
• 2008-06-06 - Canada Strengthens Poultry Avian Influenza Surveillance

Information we provide for the general public includes:

• Avian influenza virus types, prevention and preparation
• Avian influenza and human health
• Surveys and reports on previous disease incidents
• AI related restrictions on pet bird imports

Information we provide for producers and the livestock sector includes:

• Bird Health Information Sessions
• Notifiable Avian Influenza Hazard Specific Plan
• Prevention and preparation
  • Farm and lab biosecurity
  • Import measures for live birds
• Surveys and reports on previous disease incidents

Additional government and industry information can be found at:

• North American Plan for Avian and Pandemic Influenza
• OIE - Alert Messages
• OIE - Update on Avian Influenza in Animals (Type H5)