Understanding Avian Flu: What You Need to Know

Avian Flu? What Is It?

If you have been paying attention to the news lately, you may have heard about the Avian flu, also known as the bird flu or H5N1. Hearing about new virus outbreaks can be confusing and at times frightening, especially when it affects our farmers and food resources. Let's break down the avian flu virus and discuss preventative measures that can minimize the risk of contraction and spread.

What is the Avian Flu?

The avian flu is a respiratory disease that spreads primarily among birds and can also be transmitted to other animals including cattle, swine, and humans. This virus mainly affects the respiratory and gastrointestinal tract of animals and can spread rapidly, leading to fatalities among the bird populations.

Wild birds, such as seagulls, ducks, and geese can carry the virus without showing signs of illness. This poses a concern since these wild birds can spread the virus to other birds and livestock. According to the Centre of Disease Control Prevention, more than 136 million commercial and backyard birds have been affected by the avian flu in the United States of America. As of January 2025, in Canada, approximately 14,470,500 birds have been impacted by the virus so far, causing concerns about egg and other animal byproduct production.

How does the H5N1 Virus Spread?

The virus primarily spreads through direct contact with infected animals. The virus can also be transmitted through body fluids, respiratory droplets, or feces from infected animals.

Are You at Risk? While there have been some infections in people, transition to humans has very low rates. Contractions of the avian flu in humans are rare but are most common in close or prolonged unprotected contact with sick or dead infected animals. In November 2024, the Public Health Agency of Canada confirmed the first Canadian case of the avian flu. In humans, the virus can cause mild upper respiratory symptoms and conjunctivitis. In more severe cases, it may lead to pneumonia, organ failure, or death.

Human-to-human transmission has been extremely rare, with no evidence of sustained transmission.

Will the Avian Flu Affect my Food?

The avian flu does pose a risk to food production and consumption. Infected birds and livestock reduce agricultural production across the county and can potentially place consumers at risk.

To minimize the risk of contracting the virus through food, take the following precautions:

• Cook animal products such as eggs, poultry, and other meats to appropriate internal temperatures to kill bacteria and viruses, including H5N1.

• Avoid consuming unpasteurized milk, which has a higher risk of carrying the virus.

Why Does Unpasteurized Milk Increase the Risk of H5N1?

Cattle can contract the avian flu, which may contaminate their byproducts, including unpasteurized milk. In 2023, Canada saw an increase in the consumption of unpasteurized (raw) milk due to perceived health benefits. However, studies warn of its potential dangers, including a link to avian flu. Research indicates that heating milk can reduce the virus to undetectable levels, but prolonged cooling allows the virus to re-emerge. To reduce the risk, it is important to avoid consuming unpasteurized milk.

Next Steps: Protecting Yourself and the Community:

The avian flu poses a significant risk for Canadian farmers and the public. However, taking extra precautions can help reduce contraction rates. Here is what you can do:

• Limit Contact with Animals: Avoid touching wild birds and keep a safe distance on poultry farms. Keep pets and livestock away from wild animals to reduce the risk of spreading the virus.

• Wash Your Hands: If you have been exposed to potentially contaminated environments or animals, wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

• Practice Safe Food Handling: Avoid unpasteurized milk and ensure that food reaches safe internal temperatures during cooking.

• Being cautious about animal exposure and following proper food safety practices can help prevent the spread of the virus, contributing to a healthier and safer community.

About Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health  

Founded in 2008 in the community of Seaforth, ON, Gateway CERH is a not-for-profit rural health research organization run by a community-based volunteer board of directors. Gateway CERH's main mission is to better the health and quality of life of rural residents through research, education and communication. Learn more on the Gateway CERH website at: https://www.gatewayruralhealth.ca/ and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube