Avian Influenza
Human Health
A/H5N1 Update
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January 9, 2014 – On January 8, 2014 Manitoba Health, Healthy Living and Seniors was notified of a death due to H5N1 avian influenza (bird flu) in an Alberta resident returning from China via Vancouver. This represents North America’s first H5N1 avian influenza case. The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) has conducted a risk assessment and concluded this is an isolated case and the threat of transmission to Canadians is extremely low. PHAC issued an avian influenza (H5N1) travel health notice on January 9, 2014.
Quick facts on H5N1 avian influenza (bird flu):
- H5N1 avian influenza cases are commonly found in low numbers in parts of Asia, Africa and in the Middle East.
- Human-to-human spread of H5N1 avian influenza is rare and the risk of transmission to travellers on the flight is considered extremely low. Further monitoring of people in contact with the case has confirmed that no spread has occurred and any further transmission in Canada is extremely unlikely.
- The 2013/14 seasonal flu vaccine does not protect against H5N1 avian influenza. At this time there is no H5N1 avian influenza vaccine approved for use in Canada.
- H5N1 avian influenza can be treated with antivirals such as oseltamivir and zanamivir.
If you are travelling to an area where avian influenza (H5N1) is a concern:
- avoid high-risk areas such as poultry farms and live animal markets;
- avoid unnecessary contact with birds, including chickens, ducks and wild birds;
- avoid surfaces that may have bird droppings or secretions on them; and
- ensure that all poultry dishes are well cooked, including eggs.
For additional information concerning H5N1 avian influenza please visit the Health Canada or Public Health Agency of Canada websites.
A/H7N9 Update
- INFORMATION UPDATE: MERS-CoV (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome – Coronavirus) and H7N9 Avian Influenza Virus
Oct. 31, 2016
- INFORMATION UPDATE: MERS-CoV (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome - Coronavirus) and H7N9 Avian Influenza Virus in Eastern China
May 22, 2013
- INFORMATION UPDATE: Novel A (H7N9) Avian Influenza Virus in Eastern China
April 24, 2013
- INFORMATION UPDATE: Novel H7N9 Avian Influenza Virus in Eastern China
April 12, 2013
- INFORMATION UPDATE: Novel H7N9 Avian Influenza Virus in Eastern China
April 3, 2013
- Summary of Assessment of Public Health Risk to Canada Associated with H7N9 Avian Influenza Human Infections in China -
Public Health Agency of Canada
- Background Summary and Disease Outbreak Links for H7N9 - World Health Organization
Manitoba Fact Sheets
Helpful Links and Resources
General Information on Avian Influenza
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