On April 10, 2022, Avian Influenza (H5N1) was confirmed in a poultry flock in the County of Wetaskiwin. The information was posted on the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) website on April 11, 2022. The infected premises has been placed under quarantine by the CFIA, who has begun an investigation and will be establishing movement control measures on other farms within the area affected. Avian Influenza is highly pathogenic and presents a significant national concern as wild birds migrate to Canada because of its spread in wild bird populations globally.
For poultry producers and owners with backyard flocks or pet birds, the CFIA website contains resources on avian flu and biosecurity measures. Bird owners are legally responsible to notify authorities of Avian Influenza and should call a veterinarian or a local office of the CFIA if they suspect their birds are sick with Avian Influenza. Calls regarding possible Avian Influenza can be directed to Ravinder Arora at 403-629-1728 or email.
The County of Wetaskiwin is providing this update as public information and is not directly involved in the notification process, any questions should be directed to the CFIA.