In a recent development, Canadian authorities have confirmed three new outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 in Ontario. The affected farms are located in St. Clair, Enniskillen, and Middlesex Centre, as reported by the Feather Board Command Centre (FBCC), which coordinates health measures in the country.
Control measures implemented
To prevent the spread of the virus, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has established Primary Control Zones around each of the infected farms. These zones restrict the movement of live birds, poultry products, and related equipment. Movement within or outside these perimeters is only allowed under a permit system. The affected units are under constant monitoring and epidemiological control actions. As each zone meets the biosecurity protocol objectives, the sanitary restrictions will be progressively lifted.
Health and economic impact
H5N1 avian influenza poses a significant health risk to the poultry industry due to its high mortality rate among birds and the economic impact of containment measures, trade restrictions, and animal culling. In recent years, Canada has faced several HPAI episodes, with the most recent outbreak confirmed on March 25. Authorities have been closely monitoring the situation since then, providing regular updates and control zone maps on the CFIA’s official website.
Global context
The H5N1 virus currently circulating in the Americas belongs to a genotype resulting from recombination events in wild birds in Europe. It spread to North America in 2021 through migratory waterfowl routes and reached Central and South America by 2022. The virus has been detected in various mammalian species globally, including marine mammals and farmed mink and foxes in Europe. Although reports of mammal-to-mammal transmission are rare, the current situation in dairy cattle in the United States and mass deaths in marine mammals suggest the need for further investigation.
Conclusion
The confirmation of three new H5N1 outbreaks in Ontario underscores the ongoing threat of avian influenza to the poultry industry and public health. The CFIA’s swift implementation of control measures aims to contain the virus and prevent its spread to other regions. Continued vigilance and adherence to biosecurity protocols are crucial in managing this outbreak and mitigating its impact on the poultry sector and the broader economy.
Sources: Available upon request