On Friday, OMAFRA released additional steps and regulations to reduce the risk and limit the spread of avian influenza among birds in the province. This has been released on the advice of the Chief Veterinarian for Ontario, has issued a Minister’s Order under the Animal Health Act, 2009, with the purpose of limiting the commingling of birds from different locations in order to reduce the risk of disease transmission.

Starting April 9, Ontario is restricting the commingling of birds in Ontario at events such as fairs, sales, swaps & shows. Temporarily reduction of direct contact between birds from different locations will limit the spread of avian influenza and protect animal health, and is an important part of a strong biosecurity plan. This is in addition to Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) requirements in primary control zones. This Order will expire on May 9, 2022, but may be extended if required.

The announcement states that Avian influenza subtype H5N1 has been identified in Ontario, and eight other provinces, including Nova Scotia, and Alberta, as well as 24 US states. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency is leading the disease response to this outbreak of avian influenza.

To learn more about the Minister’s Order and Chief Veterinarian for Ontario requirements, visit http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/about/min-order/index.html.

See the full news release for further details and to learn more about the temporary measures, visit https://news.ontario.ca/en/bulletin/1001997/ontario-taking-additional-action-to-protect-flocks.