Alberta Health Services (AHS) has reported that 17 individuals, including 10 children, have been sent for testing, and all employees showing symptoms at Butterfield Acres Petting Farm are undergoing testing following the identification of nine cases of Influenza A H5, commonly known as avian flu, in poultry. The specific strain detected at the farm is the highly pathogenic avian influenza subtype H5N1, as confirmed by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) to CBC News.
At present, no human cases have been confirmed by AHS. Out of the 17 people referred for testing, three tests have returned negative, and the rest are still pending. All those referred for testing had visited the farm.
Influenza A H5 mainly impacts birds, and while human infections are rare, AHS is closely monitoring the situation. The agency is investigating individuals who displayed flu-like symptoms and had contact with workers and visitors at the farm between October 6 and October 12.
Butterfield Acres Petting Farm voluntarily closed from October 13 to 17. AHS issued a formal closure order on Friday, and the facility remains closed.
Avian influenza is a global issue, and rare human infections can occur through close contact with infected animals. This fall, Alberta has witnessed several avian influenza outbreaks on farms throughout the province.
Craig Jenne, a professor at the University of Calgary’s Department of Microbiology Immunology and Infectious Diseases, suggested that migratory birds could be the probable source of the recent exposure. He emphasized the risk posed by the presence of avian influenza in an agricultural operation intended for human interaction.
The Calgary Zoo has taken preventive measures following the confirmation of highly pathogenic avian influenza in close proximity to the zoo by CFIA. Extra precautions have been implemented to safeguard avian species from potential contamination, including the closure of certain aviaries and moving all birds indoors.
Dr. Lynora Saxinger, an infectious diseases specialist at the University of Alberta Hospital, highlighted the effectiveness of surveillance of avian flu in the province. She mentioned the global impact of H5N1 on food and egg production, emphasizing the importance of tracking such diseases.
The U.S. has faced challenges with various avian flu strains, with a multi-state outbreak of H5N1 detected in cows last year. In response to the outbreaks in Alberta, B.C. has directed commercial poultry farmers to move their flocks indoors until the avian influenza season concludes.
Despite the risks, severe illness from avian flu remains uncommon, with limited human-to-human transmission. Saxinger emphasized the importance of monitoring and addressing potential threats.
Visitors to Butterfield Acres Petting Farm between October 6 and October 12 are advised to self-monitor for symptoms. Common signs of avian flu include pink eye, fever, fatigue, body aches, headache, and respiratory issues. AHS recommends isolating and contacting Health Link at 811 if symptoms develop within 10 days of visiting the farm.
For more information, individuals can visit the AHS website.