Sask. extends avian flu control order

The order now expires on Nov. 17

By Diego Flammini
Staff Writer
Farms.com

The Government of Saskatchewan is extending an animal health order to stop the spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).

The original Animal Health Order, which would’ve expired on Oct. 21, has a new expiration date of Nov. 17.

The order “prohibits the movement to and participation of birds in shows, auctions and agricultural fairs, as well as any other events where birds would be brought together from multiple locations,” the document says.

Saskatchewan’s first order to restrict the movement of birds came into effect Sept. 21.

Since that date, Saskatchewan has experienced 11 cases of avian flu, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency says.

Officials detected the latest case on Oct. 21 in a non-commercial poultry flock in the Rural Municipality of Beaver River.

Saskatchewan has seen 25 total avian flu cases in 2022.

The fall migration season could present bird flu challenges.

Producers and flock owners should be on the lookout for symptoms of bird flu.

“The primary source of HPAI spread is linked to wild birds, so the risk of disease spread will remain high throughout the rest of the fall migration season, which typically occurs until mid-November,” the order says.