Together for Health: Avian flu in Canada—what do you need to know? 

Recently, BC health officials announced the first-ever presumptive case of H5N1 avian influenza, more simply known as avian flu, in Canada and more specifically, in BC. According to the BC Centre for Disease Control, it is believed the virus was transmitted from an infected bird or animal here in the province. While officials work to confirm the diagnosis, trace contacts, and monitor symptoms, here is what you need to know about the avian flu and about how to reduce your risk of infection. 

What is avian flu?

According to the World Health Organization, avian flu, or H5N1, is a flu virus that has mainly affected wild birds and poultry over the past two decades. It is known as Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) because it causes severe illness in birds. Over the years, the number of human infections has remained low, though the WHO called for increased surveillance in 2023 after reports of other animals, such as cattle, contracting the virus.

What are the symptoms? 

Infected people have reported a variety of symptoms, from mild reactions such as, conjunctivitis (i.e., red eyes with discharge) to influenza-like illness (i.e. fever, sore throat, muscle aches) to severe respiratory illness. Others remain completely asymptomatic.

Are there other cases in humans? 

Since October, at least 22 poultry farms in BC have been flagged as having avian flu cases, and numerous wild birds have tested positive for the virus. While this is the first human case of H5N1 in Canada, there have been a small number of cases in the United States among poultry and dairy workers this year. Earlier in November, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention asked that farm workers who were exposed to the virus be tested, even without symptoms.

Can the virus be transmitted between people? 

It is very rare that the virus transmits between people, and there is no evidence of sustained transmission between humans. The Public Health Agency of Canada says that the risk to the public currently remains low. Learn more about how the Public Health Agency of Canada identifies and monitors emerging public health threats. 

How do I reduce my risk of infection? 

While the risk to the public is low, you can help prevent infection by: 

• Avoiding touching sick or dead birds or animals 

• Limiting exposure to poultry farms or bird markets 

• Maintaining good hand hygiene 

• Not eating raw or undercooked poultry 

• Reporting dead or ill birds and mammals to provincial authorities 

You can learn more about avian flu on the Canadian government’s avian influenza page, or visit the BCCDC website.