Animal health order extended in Saskatchewan due to bird flu

Continued outbreaks of bird flu in domestic flocks have resulted in the extension of the animal health control area order in Saskatchewan.

In a media release Wednesday, the provincial government said the order — which was put in place Sept. 21 and was set to expire Friday — has been extended until Nov. 17.

“The order from Saskatchewan’s Chief Veterinary Officer prohibits the movement to and participation of birds in shows, auctions and agricultural fairs, as well as any other events where birds would be brought together from multiple locations,” the government’s release said.

The goal of the order is to reduce direct contact between birds from different locations in hopes of limiting the spread of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) between flocks.

The government noted the main source of spread of HPAI is wild birds, so the risk will remain high through the fall migration season. That typically lasts until mid-November.

Since April, bird flu has been detected at 25 locations in Saskatchewan.

Poultry producers and small flock owners are urged to follow biosecurity protocols to protect their flocks from the disease. For small flock owners, that includes keeping their birds indoors, if possible, during wild bird migration.

Any producers who have concerns about the health of their flocks should contact their veterinarian immediately.

More information on how to protect flocks and recognize the disease is available here.