Commercial poultry farmers in British Columbia have been instructed to house their flocks indoors during the avian influenza season. This directive, issued by B.C.’s Chief Veterinary Officer Dr. Theresa Burns on September 10, was prompted by multiple avian influenza outbreaks on farms in Alberta.
In response to Dr. Burns’ order, the B.C. Poultry Association has enforced Red Biosecurity Protocols, which involve heightened sanitation practices and the use of protective gear. Shawn Hall, director of the B.C. poultry industry’s emergency operations center, emphasized the farmers’ dedication to safeguarding their flocks and local food supply.
As migratory birds like geese migrate southward, the risk of avian influenza transmission to chicken and turkey farms escalates. Last year, between October and January, 81 poultry farms in British Columbia reported avian influenza infections, according to Hall.
All commercial poultry farmers with production authorization must adhere to these orders and protocols. The implementation of Red Biosecurity Protocols necessitates strict compliance with specific guidelines, such as wearing personal protective equipment and thoroughly sanitizing equipment and vehicles.
Despite the inconvenience of visitor restrictions and stringent protocols, B.C. farmers prioritize their flocks’ safety and adhere to the strict standards set by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). To prevent the entry of viruses from wild animals, many farmers have invested in specialized fans and filters for their barns.
In the event of an infection within a commercial flock, all birds must be culled following CFIA protocols. These precautions have been enforced seasonally since 2022 when the H5N1 avian influenza strain was first detected in British Columbia during a global outbreak.
Hall noted that migratory birds like ducks serve as vectors for the virus, transmitting it during their biannual migrations. Due to the risk posed by wild birds, farmers must take extra precautions to eliminate water sources on their properties to discourage migrating waterfowl.
People are advised against feeding ducks and other waterfowl, as these birds can carry avian influenza without displaying symptoms. The risk of infection extends not only to other birds but also to humans, pets, and livestock. To mitigate disease transmission, reporting sick or dead wild birds to B.C.’s wild bird reporting line is crucial.
Efforts to prevent the spread of avian influenza underscore the importance of public vigilance and adherence to biosecurity measures in safeguarding poultry health and human well-being.
