More cases of Avian Influenza showing up on the Prairies

The migration of wild birds this fall has resulted in a return of the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza or "bird flu" showing up across the prairies.

Producers are encouraged to take active measures by preventing contact between poultry and wild birds, limiting visitors to barns, using barn-specific clothing and footwear, and regularly monitoring birds for signs of illness.

The Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza has had a major impact on the poultry industry with an estimated 1.2 million birds in commercial poultry operations in Alberta being infected.

The CFIA's website on the ongoing status of avian influenza response by province puts the estimated number of birds in flocks impacted in Saskatchewan at 315,000 birds and 35,000 birds in Manitoba.

Alberta is currently dealing with 12 cases, while Manitoba and Saskatchewan each have five.