Canadian chicken producers are meeting confirmation of the highly pathogenic H5N1 bird flu in a commercial poultry flock in Manitoba.
The CFIA website says the disease was confirmed Saturday in the rural municipality of Whitemouth.
Lisa Bishop-Spencer is the director of brand and communications with chicken producers in Canada.
“Everything that needs to enter this area for poultry and eggs will have to be allowed within this 10-kilometer zone. region. In addition, farmers work hard on the farm and within this 3-kilometer zone around the index farm. They will do things like disinfect vehicle tires and wheel wells when they get in and out of the property. Change legs clothing when visiting the premises and then again, if at all need to enter the barn. Things like limiting the visit to an appointment and tracking who comes to the property. “
She says Health Canada is adamant that this is not a food safety issue, but rather a herd health issue.
Bishop Spencer commented on what would happen to the infected barn.
“The Canadian Food Inspection Agency will order this barn to be depopulated and then we will do everything possible at this time. If she’s in the barn, we try to keep her in the barn, and if she’s out, we keep her out.
Bishop Spencer notes that producers should not worry, but should be vigilant and increase biosecurity around all properties. She adds that they do not see much side-spread from farm to farm, which is good news, and reminds people to watch the wild birds in the area.
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