Agriculture. A positive case of avian flu was detected around October 8 or 9, in a farm located in the MRC des Jardins-de-Napierville. The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food of Quebec (MAPAQ), calls on citizens to be careful.
In a press release, the MAPAQ says it is collaborating with all the stakeholders involved in the identification of farms near the cases, in order to apply prevention, surveillance and control measures to limit the spread of the virus.
This virus spread in the spring, but we had a break this summer, he specifies. We consider ourselves lucky because this case is the first in Quebec since the beginning of the fall migration.
Yohan -Dallaire-Boily, Public Relations Officer at -MAPAQ
“This year, there are many cases all over North America, indicates Yohan Dallaire-Boily, public relations officer at MAPAQ. In Quebec, it is the 13e case since 1is January 2022. That’s more than past years. »
Origin
Mr. -Dallaire-Boilly confirms that this case detected in the Jardins-de-Napierville, near Saint-Jacques-le-Mineur, originated from migrating birds that carried the disease.
When a case of avian influenza is detected, the CFIA generally culls the farm and disinfects the site to prevent the virus from spreading. This process may take a few weeks. “It’s also the CFIA that compensates the producer for the loss of his farm,” adds Mr. Dallaire-Boily.
Prudence
There is no indication that the virus can be transmitted to humans through the consumption of poultry, game or eggs prepared and cooked correctly, specifies the -MAPAQ.
Avian flu represents a low risk for the general population, recalls the -Ministry in its press release. The rare cases where the virus is transmitted to humans are generally associated with close and prolonged contact in a closed environment with infected birds.
“We especially want to warn the population to be careful,” said Mr. -Dallaire-Boily. Even if a person only has two hens, if one animal is infected, the virus could travel to larger breeders. »
Biosecurity
The -MAPA invites owners of breeding birds, but also owners of urban hens, to be extra vigilant.
It is recommended to avoid direct contact between farmed birds and wild birds.
Access to the farm must be limited to authorized persons, motor vehicles must be disinfected before entering the breeding premises, links between small bird farms and commercial farms should be avoided and gatherings of birds avoided.
signs
Poultry owners should watch for signs of bird flu in their birds.
We are talking about a lack of energy and appetite, a decrease in egg production, the laying of eggs with soft shells or without shells, swelling of the head, eyelids, comb, wattles and hocks, coughing, sneezing, nervous signs, diarrhea, lack of coordination, or sudden death.
What to do ?
In Canada, avian influenza is a reportable disease. If there is any sign of illness or unusual mortality, poultry owners should consult a veterinarian.
If this is not possible, contact the CFIA’s emergency telephone line at 1 866 8064115 or the -MAPAQ -Reporting Center at 1 844 -ANIMAUX (2646289).