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Avian Influenza

Public Inquiries - 1-800-442-2342


Avian influenza (AI) is a contagious viral infection that can affect several species of food producing birds as well as pet birds and wild birds. AI viruses can be classified into two categories: low pathogenic (LPAI) and highly pathogenic (HPAI) forms, based on the severity of the illness caused in birds.

Avian influenza viruses, such as the highly pathogenic H5N1 virus present in Asia, may, on rare occasions, cause disease in humans. Transmission to humans has occurred through close contact with infected birds or heavily contaminated environments.

In Canada, highly pathogenic avian influenza is a reportable disease under the Health of Animals Act, and all cases must be reported to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA).


Information we provide for the general public includes:

Pet bird/backyard flock owners

Information we provide for producers and the livestock sector:

Prevention and Control Measures

In the event of a disease incident in Canada

Additional government and industry information: