Minister's Order - Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has confirmed cases of highly pathogenic influenza (H5N1) in Ontario.

Ontario Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Lisa M. Thompson has issued a Minister's Order under the Animal Health Act, 2009 for the purpose of limiting the commingling of birds from different locations in Ontario, in order to reduce the likelihood of disease transmission in domestic birds by limiting direct contact.

Effective April 9, 2022, this Order temporarily prohibits events where birds commingle, such as bird shows, bird sales and swaps, portions of fairs where birds are exhibited, sport and educational displays where birds are brought from multiple locations, vaccination gatherings for birds from multiple locations, and prohibits movement of birds to those events. Temporarily reducing direct contact between birds from different locations will limit the spread of avian influenza and protect flock health. This Order will expire on May 9, 2022.

Avian influenza is not a threat to food safety but impacts domesticated and wild birds. Ontario poultry and eggs are safe to eat when, as always, proper handling and cooking takes place. People working with poultry should take additional precautions and are strongly encouraged to follow all public health guidelines and maintain strict biosecurity.

For more information:

• OMAFRA's Avian Influenza webpage
• Canadian Food Inspection Agency - Protect Poultry, Prevent Disease
• Checklist to Implementing an Effective Biosecurity Plan
• Suggested Solutions for Farmers - Deterring Migratory Birds
• Biosecurity Recommendations for Small Flock Poultry Owners
• How to prevent and detect disease in backyard flocks and pet birds
• Biosecurity for Small Poultry Flocks During High Risk Periods 
• Mental health resources for farmers