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  Find links to leading agencies on avian flu and wildlife diseases in Canada.
• NOVA Science Now Video "Pandemic Flu" that explains the basics of avian flu. © WGBH Educational Foundation

In this section

1. About Avian Flu
2. Role of Migratory birds
3. Monitoring Avian Flu
4. DUC's Position
5. Frequently Asked Questions
6. References
7. Bird Flu Update

 

Monitoring Avian Flu in Canada

Migratory Birds:

The high pathogenic H5N1 strain of avian flu is currently not  present in North America and the probability of its arrival in North American waterfowl cannot be predicted. In Canada, health and management of migratory birds are within the jurisdiction of the Canadian Wildlife Service (CWS) of Environment Canada. The CWS is actively participating in the monitoring and reporting of avian flu in Canada among migratory birds, in consultation with other agencies such as the Canadian Cooperative Wildlife Health Centre (CCWHC), which co-ordinates Canada's national wildlife health surveillance program and provides educational programs, information, and consultation to both government and non-government agencies, as well as to the public.

Poultry Operations:  

According to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), the lead federal agency responsible for investigating suspect cases of avian flu, the best means to address the issue of disease transmission is to recognize that the risk exists and to encourage commercial poultry producers to maintain strict bio-security practices. CFIA’s monitoring and control of the disease focuses on measures including: stringent global monitoring programs; immediate culling and correct disposal of infected flocks; limiting contact between domestic poultry and wild birds; and restrictions on the movement of domestic poultry. 

Public Health:

The federal government has established a website for avian flu which provides a central portal of information on the planned management of the virus if it ever occurs in humans in Canada. The site identifies the lead agencies responsible for monitoring of, and response to, emerging information on avian flu. DUC will continue to monitor emerging avian flu information from these and other sources.

While the high pathogenic H5N1 strain of avian flu is currently not a threat to the Canadian public, DUC encourages people to follow the standard precautions offered by the Public Health Agency of Canada for protecting themselves against diseases when handling harvested animals to minimize risks.

<< Page 2: Role of Migratory birds
Page 4: DUC's Position >>