Day 3: Three French Hens
French hens aren’t wild birds but are an important reminder of the interface between domestic animals and wildlife. Avian influenza, a type “A” influenza virus, is a contagious viral infection that can affect all species of birds but can, less commonly, infect mammals. While all bird species are thought to be susceptible to infection, domestic poultry flocks are especially vulnerable to infections that can rapidly turn into epidemics.
Highly pathogenic avian influenza(HPAI) is in the news again with outbreaks being reported across Europe and Asia in both domestic and wild birds. In Canada, no HPAI has been detected since 2015. The CWHC continues to monitor wild bird population across Canada for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).
For information on the CWHC’s national AIV program please visit:
http://www.cwhc-rcsf.ca/disease_surveillance.php
For more information about the European situation please visit:
https://www.izsvenezie.com/reference-laboratories/avian-influenza-newcastle-disease/europe-update/