Avian Influenza turns up in waterfowl under care in Amherstburg

Wings Rehab Centre in Amherstburg have been triaging waterfowl that were rushed into their care and Wings reports they have received several cases of waterfowl that have tested positive for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5NX). Photo is from Wings' Facebook page.

Avian influenza has been identified in waterfowl under care at an Amherstburg animal rehabilitation facility.

According to a social media post from Wings Rehab Centre, they were triaging waterfowl and raptors that were rushed into their care.

Wings reports that after running tests and labs with our partners at a lab we have received several cases of waterfowl that have tested positive for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5NX).

“We will continue to accept waterfowl and raptors in our care but will be implementing a strict protocol to protect finders, patients, volunteers and staff. To minimize the risk of outbreak and human transmission only select staff members will be handling and treating waterfowl and raptors.”

Wings Rehab Centre is urging caution if someone is handling and transporting injured wildlife such as waterfowl, raptors or any birds.

“Current best practices include wearing gloves, mask and thoroughly washing hands and clothes after coming into contact with infected wildlife,” Wings recommends.

Wings Rehab Centre added: “Thank you to our dedicated staff and volunteers and finders for continuing to work through this outbreak and continue to treat the wildlife that comes into our care.”

The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU) is also urging caution if someone is handling wild or domestic birds or animals.

“The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit has been in discussion with Wings Rehab Centre regarding the handling and care of the infected animals. At this time, there is no confirmed transmission to humans related to these cases in our region. Although the risk of Avian Influenza for humans in Windsor-Essex remains low, transmission between infected animals and humans is possible,” WECHU said in a statement. “Residents are encouraged to take precautions in their interactions with any wild and domestic birds, livestock, or other animals by avoiding exposure and notifying their municipal animal control program if they observe an animal that appears to be sick or may have died from unknown causes.”

By Ron Giofu