B.C. avian flu: Virus confirmed in Summerland, Sechelt, Peace River district

Avian flu has been detected in three more small poultry flocks in various parts of B.C.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has confirmed the virus in Sechelt, Summerland, and the Peace River district. These bring the total number of infections in B.C. to 15.

“The infected premises have been placed under quarantine by the CFIA and B.C.’s Ministry of Agriculture and Food has notified producers within a 10-kilometre radius about the positive test results,” reads a statement from the province.

The CFIA says while the so-called “bird flu” is not a food safety concern, it is spreading across the globe and anyone with birds must use preventive measures like securing their property by a fence.

It says small flocks are at risk of contracting viruses like avian influenza, especially if they have access to ponds or bodies of water known to be used by wild birds.

Related articles:

• B.C. eggs, chicken safe to eat, says industry, as avian flu spreads

• ‘Unless you are a bird, you shouldn’t worry’: Avian flu worries unwarranted, vet association head

H1N1 can also be spread on the clothing and shoes of visitors and employees moving from flock to flock, through contaminated feed, water, bedding and farm equipment as well as via airborne particles and dust blown by the wind.

With files from The Canadian Press