A strain of avian influenza that is highly contagious among birds is currently spreading from the United States into southern Canada.

Also known as ‘bird flu,’ avian influenza is a respiratory disease which naturally occurs in wild birds throughout the world. It is common for migratory waterfowl such as ducks, gulls, geese, and shorebirds to carry and spread these viruses.

Currently, transmission from birds to humans is rare and cases in humans have been relatively mild in nature. There is no evidence to suggest that the consumption of cooked poultry or eggs could transmit avian influenza to humans.

It is considered safe to hunt, handle, and eat healthy wild birds in the NWT.

The following precautions are important when hunting or handling birds.

Symptoms of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in wild birds may include:

Birds kept for agricultural purposes

Symptoms of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in domestic birds may include:

Symptoms of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in humans may include:

If you develop symptoms and may have been exposed

If you are experiencing any symptoms, and have been in contact with wild birds or domestic birds showing signs of illness, contact your local health centre for assessment and advise them of your bird exposure.

Wear a mask when around others, use healthy respiratory practices, and perform frequent hand hygiene until further guidance is provided from a health care professional.

For questions related to Avian Influenza and wild birds in the territories, you can contact Canadian Wildlife Service (Environment & Climate Change Canada) at cwsnorth-scfnord@ec.gc.ca

For media requests, please contact:

Migratory bird health and avian flu surveillance

Government of the Northwest Territories

Jessica_Davey-Quantick@gov.nt.ca

Government of the Northwest Territories

Jeremy_Bird@gov.nt.ca