Less than every week after the Canadian Food Inspection Agency confirmed that the extremely pathogenic H5N1 pressure of avian flu had been found in Alberta poultry flocks, a provincial cupboard minister stated “there is no risk to food safety” and his authorities is responding to the event.
“The quick discovery of these cases is a testament to the effectiveness of our disease surveillance and response system and the commitment of our poultry producers,” Agriculture, Forestry and Rural Economic Development Minister Nate Horner stated in a information launch issued Tuesday.
“The risk to human health is extremely low.”
READ MORE: Highly pathogenic avian flu present in Alberta poultry, new instances in Ontario: CFIA
Horner stated his authorities helps the CFIA with its investigation by testing and mapping.
“We have offered our help wherever possible and needed,” the minister stated. “We are in common contact with the CFIA, trade, producers and different stakeholders to guarantee a well timed, co-ordinated and efficient response.
“This case is an important reminder of the importance of strict biosecurity measures and early detection.”
Horner famous anybody with flocks of poultry is required to report any suspected avian flu instances to the CFIA or to Alberta’s chief veterinarian’s workplace.
READ MORE: Canada’s meals trade making changes amid massive fowl flu outbreak
Since late final yr, avian flu outbreaks involving the extremely pathogenic H5N1 pressure have additionally been detected elsewhere in Canada, together with in Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia and Ontario.
While totally different types of avian flu are sometimes thought-about gentle, H5N1 could cause critical illness and loss of life in birds.
So far, officers have stated there was no proof of farm-to-farm transmission.
The CFIA has arrange management zones in areas with energetic outbreaks in Alberta to quarantine contaminated animals.
In his assertion, Horner acknowledged that is “an incredibly difficult time for the affected producers.”
“We appreciate the steady support of all stakeholders as we continue working together to resolve this issue.”
–With information from Laura Osman, The Canadian Press

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