Avian influenza is a viral infection that can spread easily and quickly among birds.
Saskatoon – The city of Saskatoon encourages residents to be careful when working or interacting with wild birds to help prevent the spread of avian influenza or bird flu.
The Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture confirmed earlier this month that a snow goose found near the town of Elrose had tested positive. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has collected samples showing that the snow goose carries highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).
This confirmation follows the discovery of HPAI in poultry and wild birds in the United States and several Canadian provinces.
In addition, the city authorities would like to remind the public that the breeding season for Canadian geese has begun. Geese are known to protect their nests and will become aggressive if you get too close to their comfort.
People are advised to exercise extra caution and awareness if they are in areas close to potential nesting sites.
Avian influenza is a viral infection that can spread easily and quickly among birds. Some species of wild birds, such as ducks, can transmit the virus and infect other birds without becoming ill.
Other species of birds are more likely to become seriously ill and die when infected with certain species of avian influenza.
Officials say the risk to public health is extremely low and there is no risk to food safety.
The city is asking everyone to help in response to the ongoing epidemic by not feeding birds by hand, temporarily removing bird feeders that encourage birds to gather and not touching sick or dead birds.
Residents are also encouraged to report any sick or dead birds they find to the Environment Ministry Inquiry Center at 1-800-567-4224 or email center.inquiry@gov.sk.ca.
Saskatoon Park and Zoo has temporarily relocated all species of birds to the zoo’s sheltered facility to protect them from bird flu.
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