Commercial poultry farmers in British Columbia have been instructed to relocate their flocks indoors during the avian influenza season. The indoor housing order was enforced by B.C.’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr. Theresa Burns, on September 10 as a proactive response to avian influenza outbreaks on Alberta farms.
In line with Dr. Burns’ directive, the B.C. Poultry Association opted to enforce Red Biosecurity Protocols, which entail heightened sanitation measures and the use of protective gear. Shawn Hall, the director of the B.C. poultry industry’s emergency operations center, emphasized that farmers are diligently implementing measures to safeguard their flocks and local food supply.
The migration of wild birds such as geese heading south poses an increased risk of avian influenza transmission to chicken and turkey farms. Last year in British Columbia, 81 poultry farms reported avian influenza infections between October and January, according to Hall.
All commercial poultry farmers with production quota authorization must adhere to the prescribed orders and protocols. These include strict guidelines like wearing personal protective equipment and thorough sanitization of equipment and vehicles.
Despite the inconvenience of visitor restrictions and stringent protocols, B.C. farmers prioritize their flock’s safety and compliance with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s standards. Investments in specialized equipment like fans and filters in barns are common among farmers to prevent viruses from wild animals from entering their premises.
In the event of an infection within a commercial flock, all birds must be culled as per CFIA protocols. These precautions have been recurrently implemented since 2022 following the confirmation of the H5N1 avian influenza strain in British Columbia amid a global outbreak.
Wild migratory birds, particularly ducks, can serve as vectors transmitting the virus during their seasonal flights. Hall highlighted that due to the risk of infection from wild birds, farmers must ensure their properties are free of water to deter migrating waterfowl from landing.
People are advised against feeding wild ducks to minimize the risk of avian influenza transmission. Waterfowl, including ducks, can be carriers of the virus without displaying symptoms, making caution around them crucial to prevent potential infections in birds, mammals, and humans.
To help in controlling the spread of avian influenza, individuals are encouraged to report any sick or deceased wild birds to B.C.’s wild bird reporting line at 1-866-431-2473.