The Chief Veterinary Office (CVO), in collaboration with industry stakeholders and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), would like to notify Manitoba veterinary teams of the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 in the province.

Locations of HPAI detections in Canada and their respective control zones can be found at CFIA’s Detections of avian influenza in Canada website. General information on HPAI H5N1 can be found on CFIA’s Facts about avian influenza website. Suspect cases of HPAI H5N1 should be reported to the Sick Bird Line, 1-403-338-5225, where CFIA will determine appropriate follow-up.

Veterinary teams can encourage poultry owners to watch their flocks carefully during wild bird migratory seasons, noting any changes in health. Signs of avian influenza may include:

• A sudden drop in egg production
• Diarrhea
• Hemorrhages of the hock
• Increased mortality rate – often sudden and high, but can also occur at more moderate rates
• Extreme depression
• Swelling of the skin under the eyes
• Swollen and congested wattles and combs

Those with additional questions can contact their district CFIA office or reach out to the Manitoba CVO at chiefveterinaryoffice@gov.mb.ca or 1-204-945-7663.

HPAI impacts on poultry owners can be devastating and Manitoba veterinary clinics are reminded that special mental health resources are available to livestock/poultry producers and those involved in agriculture. Veterinary teams are encouraged to share this information with clients, as no one should feel alone during difficult times. The Manitoba Farmer Wellness Program (MFWP) offers no-cost, short term counselling specifically tailored to Manitoba farmers, farm families and farm employees. The Canadian Centre for Agriculture Wellbeing (CCAW) offers mental health training to those involved in the agricultural industry. The National Farmer Crisis Line, 1-866-FARMS-01, offers free, 24/7 mental health support to farmers, farm families and agricultural workers in Canada.