Breeders cull birds after avian flu outbreak at national poultry show in Sask.
An outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza has been confirmed at a national poultry show in Saskatchewan, leading to mass culling of birds. Authorities are urging breeders and pet owners to monitor their animals for symptoms and report potential cases.
Why it matters
Avian flu outbreaks pose significant risks to agricultural stability and have potential, though low, zoonotic transmission risks.
Three cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) have been detected in the Prairie provinces and "additional cases may be confirmed as the disease investigation proceeds," the CFIA statement says.
The agency is encouraging people who brought or took home birds at the event to immediately contact the agency.
One of the show's organizers says the outbreak has devastated breeders.
"It's kind of like the opposite of winning the lottery. You don't ever expect it, but it could come anywhere," said Rob McCulloch who helped organize the Canadian National Poultry Show held on Nov. 7 in Moose Jaw through the Saskatchewan Poultry Association.
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