November 7, 2024: Message from BC's Chief Veterinarian regarding Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in wild birds and mammals

November 7, 2024

Date: 7 November, 2024

To: Veterinarians in British Columbia

Re: Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in wild birds and mammals

Reporting of sick and dead wild birds across the province has increased recently. Since Oct 21, 2024, outbreaks of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) have been detected in both commercial and non-commercial poultry in BC. For UTD data on detections in wildlife and sediment in BC see the BC Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) Detections dashboard.

Handling sick birds, often brought to wildlife rehabilitation facilities or private veterinary clinics, presents a risk of human exposure.

Clinics accepting wild bird cases must establish protocols and ensure staff are trained and equipped with proper PPE. More details are in the following BCCDC Guidance documents.

BCCDC Guidance:

If the public would like to report sick or dead wild birds/mammals and suspect disease, please have them contact the BC Wild Bird Mortality Line at 1-866-431-2473, providing the date, location, species, and number of affected birds.

Please reach out with any questions.

Regards,

Theresa Burns (in collaboration with Dr. Caeley Thacker, BC Wildlife Veterinarian, WLRS)