B.C. animal clinics told to set up avian flu protocols amid human exposure risk

B.C. health authorities have announced the first case of a human avian flu infection acquired in Canada, with the teenage patient in critical condition in hospital.

British Columbia’s chief veterinarian has told clinics that treat wild birds that they must establish protocols to prevent the spread of avian flu, warning of the risk of human exposure to the illness.

Dr. Theresa Burns said in a letter to vets last week that reporting of sick and dead wild birds across the province has increased recently and clinics handling wild birds must have safety procedures in place and ensure staff are trained and equipped with proper protection.

Days after Burns issued her letter, B.C. health authorities announced the first case of a human avian flu infection acquired in Canada, with the teenage patient in critical condition in hospital.

Burns said in an interview that her office has been working since 2022 to educate veterinarians on the H5N1 avian flu virus, and the letter was another reminder in the midst of fall migration.

When birds get this flu they present with symptoms such as an inability to fly, weakness, and neurologic signs, she said.

“And then people find those birds, and out of the goodness of their hearts, they pick them up to try to help them, and they often will bring them into veterinary clinics for care,” she said.

“And we just want to make sure that our veterinarians and their staff who might receive calls, or have people bringing those wild birds, are aware of the avian influenza and what they need to do to protect themselves and their staff.”

Burns said sick birds should be isolated from people and animals and that anyone who interacts with them should wear protective gear including gowns, gloves and eye protection.