Mammals can catch influenza viruses from:
- hunting infected birds; and
- scavenging bird carcasses.
Pigs can also be infected when in contact with infected wild or domestic birds.
Infections of mammals by avian flu are rare and exposure does not always result in illness.
The virus can spread from direct and close contact with infected birds or contaminated areas. We advise bird and animal owners to take precautions to curb the spread of the virus, including:
- keeping your birds and animals away from wild birds, bird carcasses or areas highly frequented by birds;
- consider keeping pets indoors or on leash in areas birds frequent;
- regularly cleaning and disinfecting:
- backyard feeders;
- baths; and
- areas contaminated with bird feces;
- taking down feeders and emptying baths; and
- learning to recognize the signs of bird flu and identify an infected bird.
You can find more information on how to protect your birds or animals from the avian flu on the Canadian Food Inspections Agency website.
Contact your local veterinarian with any concerns about your domestic pets.
Human cases of this strain of avian influenza are very uncommon. Human illness tends to be caused by close contact with infected live or dead poultry. While the risk of human infection with avian influenza viruses is low, individuals should be cautious when handling sick or dead birds.
If you have concerns or questions or become ill after handling birds, see your doctor or contact Yukon Communicable Disease Control (YCDC) at 867-667-8323.
If you have a sick or dead domestic bird, contact your veterinarian and immediately report it to the Animal Health Unit: phone 867-667-5600 or email animalhealth@yukon.ca.
If you find a sick or injured wild bird, report it to the TIPP line: phone 1-800-661-0525 or visit Yukon.ca/TIPP.
If you must handle a sick or dead bird, use personal protective equipment.
