City of Hamilton reminds community members to avoid handling wild birds with Avian Flu confirmed locally

HAMILTON, ON – Avian influenza (“bird flu)” has been identified in a Turkey Vulture in Dundas.

Avian Influenza A (H5N1) is a viral disease that affects mostly domesticated poultry and wild birds, such as geese, ducks, and shore birds. Wild birds are especially likely to carry and transmit the virus.

While avian influenza can be fatal for both wild and domesticated birds, the risk to humans is very low. Most cases of avian flu in humans have been traced to handling infected poultry (live or dead) or their feces. There is no evidence to suggest that properly cooked poultry is a source of concern of avian influenza infection for people.

Preventing avian influenza infection

To reduce their risk, individuals are advised not to touch or handle any birds they may come in contact with and are asked to refrain from feeding birds via bird feeders.

If contact with wild birds is unavoidable, wear gloves or layer two plastic bags to avoid contact with body fluids, blood and feces. Individuals should then wash their hands with warm water and soap.

Avian influenza symptoms

If individuals have handled a sick wild bird or domesticated poultry, they should monitor for human symptoms of avian influenza, including:

• Fever, cough, sore throat, runny or congested nose
• Muscle or body aches, headache, general fatigue
• Conjunctivitis (red eyes)
• Shortness of breath
• Less common symptoms include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting or seizures

If an individual is experiencing any of these symptoms and have been in contact with wild birds or poultry in the previous 10 days, they should contact their doctor or nurse. While human to human transmission is rare, symptoms of avian influenza are very similar to COVID-19 symptoms. Individuals experiencing these symptoms who have had contact with poultry/wild birds should distance from others and wear a mask until they have received assessment from their health care provider.

What to do if you encounter sick or dead wild birds

If a community member encounters several sick or dead wild birds, they should call Canadian Cooperative Wildlife Health Centre at 1-800-567-2033 to report and receive guidance. If they must dispose of a dead bird on their property, the individual should take necessary precautions outlined at www.ontario.ca/page/dead-animals-or-fish-found-your-property. 

Quick facts

• The Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs is working with local, other provincial, federal, and international authorities to monitor and respond to situations related to avian influenza, as they arise.
• Parts of North America, Europe, Asia and Africa are currently experiencing avian influenza outbreaks.