Avian influenza (AI) is a viral infection that affects food-producing birds, pet birds and wild birds. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) leads AI response in Canada. In 2022, 2023 and 2024, the H5N1 strain of AI was confirmed in BC as part of a global outbreak. Information about detections in Canada can be found on CFIA’s website.
On this page:
In March and April 2024, H5N1 AI virus was detected in the United States in ruminants (cattle and goats). More information about AI in ruminants can be found here:
There are two classifications of AI viruses based on the severity of the illness caused in birds:
HPAI, including H5N1 and certain LPAI viruses, are considered to be notifiable AI, which is a reportable disease under the Health of Animals Act. All cases must be reported to the CFIA and B.C. Chief Veterinarian.
AI can be transmitted from bird to bird through secretions and feces, and indirectly through human movement, contaminated feed, water, and equipment. Preparedness measures help bird owners take preventative steps to protect their flock and prepare in the event of an AI outbreak.
Resources are available to help you prevent and detect disease.
Small flock and pet owners
Commercial producers and service industry
Poultry show, swap fair, fair organizers and attendees
All small flock owners are encouraged to take part in the Small Flock Communications Study being led by Dr. Cassandra Andrew, Veterinarian, UBC Graduate Student. The study is being conducted by the University of British Columbia, Simon Fraser University, and the B.C. and Yukon Governments.
Dr. Andrew is partnering with us to learn more about small flock owners and how they can be supported to prevent AI in their flocks. Participation is voluntary. Through the survey, you can also sign up to participate in a 30-60 minute phone or Zoom interview.
Environment Canada offers guidance on feeding wild birds in your backyard. Keep domestic birds safe by following their use and care tips for bird feeders and baths. Be aware that wild birds are the main source of AI.
Premises Identification (ID) information is used to plan for and manage emergencies affecting livestock. The Premises ID program improves the ministry's ability to:
B.C. poultry and livestock owners and commingling site operators must register. There is no cost to take part in the program. Learn more about Premises ID or register your premises.
The most important sign of AI is a sudden, unexplained increase in flock mortality. Some or all of the following clinical signs are also evident in infected birds:
For all other inquiries, contact AgriServiceBC at 1-888-221-7141.
If you suspect ruminants (e.g. cattle, goats) you own have signs of AI:
Testing of milk samples from clinically healthy cattle to confirm a negative HPAI status is now available at the BC Animal Health Centre. This testing provides another tool that producers can use to reduce risk of introducing HPAI into their herds. For more information speak to your veterinarian or contact the Animal Health Centre.
Cattle show and fair organizers and attendees
Commercial chicken and turkey to remain indoors: General order in place
Effective September 17, 2024, the Chief Veterinarian has issued General Order AIV 2024-01 (PDF, 246 KB).
All persons responsible for chickens and turkeys in operations regulated by one of the following:
and who hold quota from their relevant Marketing Board or Commission are subject to this order.
All live Poultry kept by the persons subject to this order must be maintained indoors unless this order is otherwise modified by the further order of an inspector.
For certainty, the above required action does not limit the sales, transportation or slaughter of Poultry, or the disposal of Poultry carcasses.
Commingling with conditions is allowed for birds maintained in areas other than the Lower Mainland; commingling is not permitted in the Lower Mainland
Effective October 23, 2024, the Chief Veterinarian has issued General Order AIV 2024-02 (PDF, 281 KB), which prohibits commingling of poultry in the Lower Mainland.
The following classes of persons are subject to this order:
This Order applies to persons responsible for the following types of birds:
The following are Commingling Events:
Persons responsible for birds in the Lower Mainland must not take birds to Commingling Events.
Persons responsible for birds outside of the Lower Mainland must not take birds to Commingling Events in the Lower Mainland.
Persons responsible for birds outside of the Lower Mainland may take birds to Commingling Events that take place outside of the Lower Mainland under the following conditions:
An infected premises (IP) occurs when an HPAI detection in poultry is confirmed through laboratory testing. CFIA places an IP under quarantine. Learn about what to expect if your birds are infected.
CFIA may also create a Primary Control Zone (PCZ) around an IP. PCZs restrict the movement of poultry and poultry related products and equipment within a 10 km radius of an IP.
You can see the location of active primary control zones (PCZs) on the CFIA web site using the interactive AI Zone Map.
If your flock is in an active PCZ, you will need a permit to move your birds, their products, and by-products. Permits are required for both small and commercial flocks. Use CFIA’s interactive tool to find information on permits and conditions.
Direct questions about permits and movement restrictions to the category that applies to you:
Small flock owners
Commercial producers
Disposal of AI Infected Wastes from poultry operations is subject to the Environmental Management Act. For more information on regulatory requirements, refer to AI Infected Waste.
The PCZ revocation process begins when the last IP in a PCZ has completed primary decontamination. The number of days required to complete the revocation process may vary. Learn about the path to revoking a primary control zone.
Animals bring many benefits to people’s lives; however, they can also be a source of diseases in people.
AI viruses can, on rare occasions, cause disease in humans. Transmission has occurred in people with close contact with infected birds or heavily contaminated environments. HealthLinkBC provides more information about identifying and preventing AI in people.
People working or in contact with AI infected or suspect birds can take actions to prevent the spread of AI:
Follow biosecurity procedures for your activities:
Loss of animals to AI can have a profound effect on our lives and our wellbeing. Help and resources for people who need to talk or feel overwhelmed are available.
Contact the Animal Health Centre (AHC) for help with:
Monday to Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM (PDT).