On May 4, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has confirmed that small poultry flocks in Kelowna and Richmond have tested positive for the highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus.
These are the third and fourth small flocks in B.C. that have contracted the virus, presumably through contact with infected migrating wild birds. Owners of small or backyard flocks are urged to continue to be vigilant and have appropriate preventative measures in place.
Full information on this press release from the Ministry of Agriculture is available here.