The Middlesex-London Health Unit is reminding the public not to touch wild birds, following the positive identification of several wild birds who died from avian influenza this winter.

Recently, Ontario has seen a rise in the identification of birds killed by a deadly strain of avian flu known as H5NX. Locally, three Canadian Geese recently found deceased in London and Strathroy tested positive for the highly pathogenic strain.

“Transmission from birds to humans is very rare, however, we ask that you avoid contact with wild birds, particularly carcasses. Keep your pets away from them too,” says Dr. Joanne Kearon, Associate Medical Officer of Health with the MLHU. “If you encounter a dead waterfowl or other wild bird, you may report it to the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative who will oversee collection of the bird and testing.”

Given the frequency of reported findings of H5NX, MLHU will not individually report each bird that tests positive but instead will notify the community should public health guidance change, and more precautions be required.

Middlesex-London Health Unit works closely with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency and the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs to protect the health of agricultural workers exposed to avian flu outbreaks. It also assesses the exposure risk of people who handle deceased wildlife as they are transported to the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative in Guelph for testing.

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Resources:
In Ontario, deceased wild birds may be reported to the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative at 1-866-673-4781