Two confirmed cases of avian flu found in Nunavut seals
Infected animals found near Resolute Bay in October
The Government of Nunavut confirmed two cases of avian flu were found in ringed seals near Resolute Bay in October. Risk of transmission to humans is considered low, said the Health Department in a public health advisory. (Photo courtesy of Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada)
Cases of avian flu have been confirmed in two ringed seals near Resolute Bay.
The Department of Health issued a public advisory about the discovery, made in October, on Dec. 13.
The report follows a previously confirmed case involving a northern fulmar, or glaucous gull, in the area that same month.
Avian influenza, also known as bird flu, is a highly contagious viral infection that can be found in domestic poultry and wild birds.
Nunatsiaq News emailed the Department of Health to ask how the disease was detected in the seals, what symptoms the seals were exhibiting, and how other animals can contract avian flu, but did not receive answers by press time.
The advisory notes that signs of infection in wildlife can include nervousness; trembling or lack of co-ordination; swelling around the head, neck, and eyes; and diarrhea or sudden death.
Multiple dead birds or mammals in one location could be a sign that avian flu is present in the area.
“The GN will not continue reporting subsequent confirmed cases,” the advisory states, adding the public can access the Government of Canada’s avian flu tracker for live data on spread of the disease.
The risk of transmission from animals to humans is low. Generally human cases of avian influenza are caused by close, prolonged contact with infected live or dead wildlife or contaminated environments.
There is no evidence that the virus can be transmitted to humans through consumption of fully cooked mammals, eggs or game birds.
To help prevent the spread of avian flu, the Health Department recommends Nunavummiut take precautions when handling wild birds.
That includes wearing gloves, washing hands with soap and warm water, and cleaning soiled clothing and equipment as soon as possible.
Anyone who notices unusual deaths or illness in wildlife is advised to contact their local conservation officer. Anyone who feels sick after handling wildlife should contact their local health centre.
(0) Comments