Avian influenza

Avian influenza (AI) is a viral infection that affects food-producing birds, pet birds and wild birds. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) leads AI response in Canada. In 2022, 2023 and 2024, the H5N1 strain of AI was confirmed in BC as part of a global outbreak. Information about detections in Canada can be found on CFIA’s website.

On this page:

• What is AI?
• Recognizing the signs of AI
• Reporting sick or dead birds
• Is AI a risk for people?

Related topics:

• General orders
• Reinforcing flock biosecurity
• HPAI in ruminants (cattle and goats)
• Infected premises and movement restrictions
• One Welfare: Mental health resources

In March and April 2024, H5N1 AI virus was detected in the United States in ruminants (cattle and goats). More information about AI in ruminants can be found here:

• Canadian Food Inspection Agency
• USDA

What is AI?

There are two classifications of AI viruses based on the severity of the illness caused in birds:

• Low pathogenic AI (LPAI). Typically causes little or no signs of illness in infected birds.
• Highly pathogenic AI (HPAI). Causes severe illness and death in birds. The recent outbreak has been caused by the H5N1 strain of HPAI.

HPAI, including H5N1 and certain LPAI viruses, are considered to be notifiable AI, which is a reportable disease under the Health of Animals Act. All cases must be reported to the CFIA and B.C. Chief Veterinarian.

Recognizing the signs of AI in poultry

The most important sign of AI is a sudden, unexplained increase in flock mortality. Some or all of the following clinical signs are also evident in infected birds:

• A drop in production of eggs, many of which are soft-shelled or shell-less
• Diarrhea
• Hemorrhages on the hock
• High and sudden mortality rate
• Quietness and extreme depression
• Swelling of the skin under the eyes
• Wattles and combs become swollen and congested

Reporting sick or dead birds

Bird owners are legally responsible to notify authorities of serious bird diseases such as bird flu. Do not take sick birds off the property.

For all other inquiries, contact AgriServiceBC at 1-888-221-7141.

Is AI a risk for people?

AI viruses can, on rare occasions, cause disease in humans. Transmission has occurred in people with close contact with infected birds or heavily contaminated environments. HealthLinkBC provides more information about identifying and preventing AI in people.

People working or in contact with AI infected or suspect birds can take actions to prevent the spread of AI:

• Wear protective clothing, including face masks, goggles, gloves and boots
• Get an annual vaccination against seasonal human influenza. This reduces the chance that you become infected with both human and bird flu strains at the same time. Find a flu vaccine clinic near you.

Follow biosecurity procedures for your activities:

• Biosecurity procedures for drivers of vehicles/equipment on Infected Premises (PDF, 155 KB)
• Guidance for municipal landfill and transfer station staff (PDF, 141 KB)