The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has confirmed a case of avian influenza at a non-commercial poultry farm on Vancouver Island’s Saanich Peninsula. While officials have not disclosed the exact location of the affected farm, BC Agriculture Minister Lana Popham revealed that the outbreak involves fewer than 100 chickens.

In response to the outbreak, the CFIA has established a primary control zone in the area and is anticipated to issue a directive for the destruction of the infected birds. "This is very upsetting for farmers, and often farm families as well," Popham stated. The emotional toll on farmers, whose livelihoods depend on poultry operations, cannot be overstated, especially when faced with such a serious and highly contagious disease.

This incident marks the 56th case of H5N1 influenza across British Columbia. The Saanich case was initially detected on November 21, following a report classified as a “sick bird call.” Dr. Troy Bourque, a veterinary program specialist with the CFIA, explained that the producer noted sick or dying birds, which prompted them to alert either their veterinarian or the CFIA for testing—and the results confirmed the presence of high-path influenza.

The risk of avian flu transmission is heightened during the fall migration season when wild birds may come into contact with domestic flocks. Popham emphasized the importance of implementing robust biosecurity protocols to mitigate risks during this vulnerable period. "It happens every year; we’re hopeful we’re at the end of it," she added.

The situation in British Columbia reflects a broader trend, as North America faces an alarming increase in avian influenza cases in recent years. Not only has the virus been detected in domestic birds, but it has also spread to some U.S. dairy cattle, raising concerns among agricultural communities.

Additionally, health officials have reported a rare but concerning case of a teenager in British Columbia who contracted a strain of the avian virus associated with wild birds; the source of this infection remains unclear. As of the latest updates, the teenager is in critical condition at BC Children’s Hospital.

This outbreak serves as a significant reminder of the ongoing threat posed by avian influenza and its potential impacts on agriculture and human health. Stay tuned for further updates as officials work to contain the situation and protect both livestock and public health.