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Avian Influenza:  What You Need to Know

Avian influenza virus (AIV) is contagious and can affect domestic and wild birds. Many AIVs occur naturally in wild birds and circulate in migratory populations without causing widespread disease. The current strain is causing widespread mortality in wild birds and occasionally in wild and domestic mammals. There have been no human cases of avian influenza resulting from exposure to wild birds in North America. However, anyone in close contact with infected birds and their environments may be at increased risk of infection. Refer to the Public Health Agency of Canada website for handling guidelines.

Common symptoms of avian flu include: 

• lack of energy or movement

• nervousness, tremors, or lack of coordination

• swelling around the head, neck, and eyes

• coughing, gasping for air, or sneezing

• diarrhea

• sudden death

For the most current information, please visit the official Government of Canada website. 

You can also find information on the BC Avian Influenza Dashboard.

What to do when you encounter a sick bird

Contact the Interagency Wild Bird Mortality Line at 1-866-431-BIRD (2473). They will give you PPE guidance depending on the situation at hand.  

Do not touch the bird. Do not bring the bird in to your house.

What about your pets?

As part of general best practices, it is recommended to keep your cat indoors and your dog on a leash to prevent contact with sick or dead wild birds as well as wild bird feces. Do not allow pets or hunting dogs to scavenge carcasses and do not feed your pets raw meat from wild birds.