Reported cases of Avian Influenza or bird flu have prompted Saskatchewan to issue an animal health order for the movement of poultry.
According to the CFIA website, since Sept. 9 cases in commercial poultry have been reported in Laird, and Cutknife as well as a small flock of birds in Shellbrook. There is also an active report on a commercial operation in the MD of Wainwright as of Sept. 16.
The Ministry of Agriculture’s Chief Veterinary Officer has placed the animal health order on the movement of poultry to limit the transport and co-mingling of birds. This is to reduce the spread of the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza.
Other measures include limiting visitors to barns, using barn-specific clothing and footwear, and regularly monitoring birds for signs of illness.
The health order will be in place until October 21, 2022, at which time it will be reviewed.
Avian influenza (AI) is a federally reportable disease under the Health of Animals Act. More information can be found on the CFIA and ministry of agriculture websites.
