Avian flu on the rise in B.C., nine outbreaks confirmed this month in poultry flocks

A surge of avian influenza outbreaks has been confirmed in British Columbia's Fraser Valley, with nine cases reported in poultry flocks over the last two weeks. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency indicates these are the first outbreaks since January, with the first detected on October 14 in Abbotsford. Six outbreaks have occurred at farms in Chilliwack, while three are in Abbotsford. The province has faced significant losses, with approximately 8. 8 million birds dying or being culled due to the virus in recent years.

The outbreak at an ostrich farm in southeastern B. C. remains active, and the farm owners are contesting a cull order issued by the food inspection agency. This legal battle has reached the Supreme Court of Canada, which is deliberating on whether to allow an appeal against a lower court's decision. The situation underscores the ongoing challenges faced by the poultry industry in the region.

As fall migration begins, the potential for further outbreaks raises concerns for local farmers and the broader agricultural community.