For release: December 05, 2005

Ontario Wild Duck Survey Results Complete
Wild birds free of highly pathogenic Asian strain of avian influenza

TORONTO - Wild birds from Ontario tested as part of a national wild bird survey are free of the strain of highly pathogenic avian influenza responsible for animal and human illness in Southeast Asia, the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs confirmed today.

"This result is consistent with results across the country," said Dr. Deb Stark, Ontario's Chief Veterinarian. "It is important to remember that avian influenza viruses have been identified in wild birds for many years, and we have not seen any signs of illness in Ontario's birds."

In November, laboratory testing identified nine samples from the wild bird study as positive for an H5 avian influenza virus. Further analysis by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) definitively identified the presence in one of these samples of low-pathogenic North American subtype H5N1.

The H5N1 subtype has been previously observed in North America and is not considered a significant concern from an animal health perspective with biosecurity measures already in effect. The Public Health Agency of Canada has been working with the CFIA on the testing and has determined that there is no information in these findings suggesting a new threat to human health.

The samples were gathered as part of the cross-country testing of viruses carried by wild waterfowl being coordinated through the Canadian Cooperative Wildlife Health Centre. The national wild bird survey includes samples taken from migratory birds along significant flyways in seven provinces. Ontario collected samples from approximately 800 wild ducks.

Avian influenza virus is commonly found around the world in wild birds. To date, the findings of this survey indicate that virus subtypes of significant concern are not present in migratory birds crossing Canada. Nonetheless, bird owners must continue to follow strict biosecurity practices to reduce the risk of disease in their flocks. Precautions should be taken to ensure that domestic birds and the feed, water and equipment used in domestic bird operations are not exposed to wild birds.

The consumption of poultry meat and products which are prepared in accordance with standard practices of food safety do not pose a risk.

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Media Contact:
Dave McLeod
(519) 826-3198

Program Contact:
Dr. Deb Stark
Chief Veterinarian
(519) 826-3528

Canadian Food Inspection Agency
Media Line
(613) 228-6682