What Canada does to monitor H5N1 avian flu

A teenager diagnosed with bird flu in British Columbia is the first domestically acquired human case of H5N1 avian influenza, according to the Public Health Agency of Canada. This virus, named after the animal where it is commonly found, is naturally present in birds such as geese, swans, seagulls, chickens, and turkeys. While it is usually a mild disease in birds, it can also spread to mammals.

Scientists at the National Microbiology Laboratory in Winnipeg confirmed that the virus from the infected B.C. teen is H5N1 by sequencing its genome. This version of the virus is related to the ongoing outbreak in poultry in B.C., but it is different from the one affecting dairy cattle in the U.S.

The risk of avian influenza infection for the general public is currently low, but individuals who have unprotected exposure to infected animals are at a higher risk. People who work closely with livestock, such as poultry and dairy farmers, are advised to wear personal protective equipment like goggles, masks, and gloves.

The only known human case in Canada is a teenager in B.C. who is in critical condition. Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry stated that humans can be infected by inhaling the virus in aerosols or droplets that enter the eyes, throat, nose, or lungs. It is likely that the B.C. teen’s infection occurred due to exposure to a sick animal or something in the environment.

To stay safe, people are encouraged to avoid direct contact with sick or dead birds and keep pets away from them. If someone experiences influenza-like symptoms after being in contact with animals, they should report it to a healthcare provider for testing.

Surveillance at hospitals detected the human case in B.C., where people with respiratory conditions are tested for various viruses. Wastewater testing in B.C. looks for H5 influenza, but it does not distinguish between human and animal sources or between low and high pathogenic viruses.

Canada is taking measures to prevent the U.S. version of H5N1 from entering the country. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is testing milk for signs of the virus in dairy cows and has imposed restrictions on the import of bird by-products from regions with active outbreaks. Farmers are required to report suspected cases of avian influenza in their poultry or livestock.

In conclusion, while the risk of avian influenza infection in humans is currently low, it is important to take precautions when in contact with animals and report any symptoms to healthcare providers. By following guidelines and staying informed, we can help prevent the spread of bird flu in Canada.