Canada faces sudden surge in Avian Influenza after months of calm

After nearly four months without a single case, Canada is now grappling with a sudden resurgence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), subtype H5N1.

David Corredor

After nearly four months without a single case, Canada is now grappling with a sudden resurgence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), subtype H5N1. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has confirmed 15 new outbreaks across six provinces in October 2025, marking a sharp reversal following a quiet summer.

• The resurgence began in September with five confirmed cases, coinciding with the seasonal return of migratory birds.
• Since then, the pace of infections has accelerated, with 13 of the 15 outbreaks occurring after October 6.
• This rapid spread highlights the vulnerability of both wild and domestic bird populations to the virus.

British Columbia, historically the hardest-hit province, reported its first new case of the year on October 14 at a commercial farm in Abbotsford. This prompted the reinstatement of an indoor housing order for poultry. Ontario also saw its first HPAI detection since March, affecting a commercial flock in Wellington County.

Other provinces impacted include:

• Alberta: One commercial flock in Warner County and two backyard flocks in Parkland and Rocky View counties.
• Manitoba: Three commercial flocks in Bifrost-Riverton, Ste. Rose, and Hanover.
• Saskatchewan: One commercial and one backyard flock in Bayne and Invergordon.
• Quebec: Two commercial flocks in Charlevoix-Est and Matawinie, plus one backyard flock in D’Autray County.

In total, 20 outbreaks have been reported nationwide since mid-September, affecting 16 commercial operations and four backyard flocks. Alberta accounts for nearly half of these cases, underscoring regional disparities in outbreak severity.