Bird Flu at Manitoba Turkey Breeding Operation

CANADA - Some turkeys in Manitoba have tested positive for an H5 strain of bird flu.
calendar icon 25 November 2010
clock icon 2 minute read

Manitoba Agriculture Food and Rural Initiatives (MAFRI) is now working with federal officials of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) at a quarantined turkey-breeding operation in Manitoba.

They say there is no evidence this is the Asian strain of H5N1 influenza and it is considered highly unlikely it will be.

They also say there is no indication of any human illness.

THe authorities say Manitoba has a comprehensive federal-provincial-producer plan to respond to avian influenza and the plan is being implemented.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency will lead the response to this situation. Veterinarians and other specialised staff from MAFRI are working closely with CFIA and assisting with the response.

Workers at the breeding operation are being contacted and offered preventive antivirals.

Further testing by federal officials is continuing with the support of MAFRI.

The auhtorities say that the risk of impacts on humans is considered very low at this time.

Human consumption of turkey products continues to be safe if the meat is properly prepared and cooked.

Further Reading

- You can visit the Avian Flu page by clicking here.
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