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The brutal wave of bird flu that has devastated commercial poultry farms across North America has spread further in Saskatchewan.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) said it detected the highly pathogenic avian influenza in a backyard flock in the rural municipality of Loreburn and a small commercial flock in the municipality of Moose Mountain.
The virus was first detected in a snow goose near Elrose on April 8.
On April 14, Saskatchewan’s Chief Veterinary Officer put in place an animal health control area order to limit the co-mingling of poultry due to the risk of the bird flu. The order prohibits birds from going to and appearing in shows, auctions, agricultural fairs, and any other events where birds would be brought together from multiple locations.
That order is in place until May 14.
At this time, the province said there is no risk to food safety and the risk of transmission is low. However, people working with chickens suspected of being infected should use protective clothing.
The province said biosecurity is the best tool for poultry producers and small flock owners to protect their birds from avian flu. Biosecurity protocols include keeping wild birds away from poultry flocks and their food and water supply, limiting visitors, and monitoring bird health.
Small flock owners are encouraged to confine their birds indoors, if possible, during wild bird migration.
Producers should contact their vets if they have concerns about the health status of their birds.