Avian Influenza
Issued: May 14, 2004
Avian Influenza in British Columbia:
An outbreak of Avian Influenza is affecting British Columbia and has prompted a large-scale poultry cull in an attempt to halt the spread of the virus. Presently, there are no indications the Avian Influenza virus has spread to Ontario.
General Information on Avian Influenza:
Avian Influenza is a contagious viral infection that can affect all species of birds. On rare occasions, it can cause disease in humans. Typically, human disease symptoms are mild and readily treatable.
Human infections are almost always linked to direct contact with infected poultry, wild or pet birds, or with droppings from infected birds. Humans can inadvertently transmit the virus between bird populations through contaminated vehicles, equipment, clothing and footwear.
Workers involved in control of outbreaks in birds are at increased risk of exposure to infection due to prolonged, close contact with birds and contaminated surfaces. These workers are advised to take precautions including hand washing and use of personal protective equipment. Employers should ensure workers receive training on these precautions and provide them with appropriate personal protective equipment.
Health Canada, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, and the World Health Organization have published guidelines on worker protection. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency provides personal protective equipment and has published guidelines for farmers.
The World Health Organization has also published interim Avian Influenza infection control guidelines for health care facilities.
Updates on the Avian Influenza situation, together with details on precautions to follow and necessary personal protective equipment, can be found on the following websites:
Avian Influenza Updates:
- Health Canada:
- Avian Influenza
- Poultry Cooking Guidelines
- Canadian Food Inspection Agency:
- Avian Influenza
- Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care:
- Human Influenza
- Avian Influenza Information for Healthcare Professionals
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control:
- Avian Influenza
- World Health Organization:
- Avian Influenza
Worker Health Precautions for Avian Influenza Outbreaks:
- Canadian Food Inspection Agency:
- Guidelines for Farmers
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control:
- Interim guidance for protection of persons involved in U.S. Avian Influenza outbreak disease control and eradication activities
