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A deceased goose recently found in the Port Stanley area has tested positive for avian influenza (also known as bird flu). Testing was conducted by the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative (CWHC).
While the risk of avian influenza spreading from wild birds to humans remains very low, residents are reminded to follow these precautions for everyone’s safety:
- Avoid contact with sick or deceased birds
- Do not feed geese or other wild birds
- Keep children and pets away from dead wildlife
- Do not attempt to handle, move, or dispose of sick or deceased birds
Residents are asked to report sightings of dead geese or other wild birds to the Municipality of Central Elgin at 519-631-4860.
The Municipality encourages all residents to follow public health guidance.
What is Avian Influenza?
Avian influenza is a bird disease caused by a virus. It mainly affects wild birds such as ducks and geese but can also spread to domestic or commercial poultry. A severe form, known as highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), including the H5N1 strain, can be deadly to both wild birds and poultry. This virus occurs naturally in wild water birds around the world and can spread to other bird species.
Additional Resources
Avian Flu | Southwestern Public Health
Avian influenza (bird flu) - inspection.canada.ca
Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative
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