Bird flu identified in a Turkey Vulture in Dundas

The City of Hamilton says Avian influenza (bird flu) has been identified in a Turkey Vulture in Dundas.

Avian Influenza A (H5N1) is a viral disease that affects mostly domesticated poultry and wild birds, such as geese, ducks and shore birds. The city says wild birds are especially likely to carry and transmit the virus.

The city says while avian influenza can be fatal for both wild and domesticated birds, the risk to humans is very low. It says most cases of avian flu in humans have been traced to handling infected poultry (live or dead) or their feces.

the city says there is no evidence to suggest that properly cooked poultry is a source of concern of avian influenza infection for people.

Hamilton is advising people not to touch or handle any birds they may come in contact with and are asked to refrain from feeding birds via bird feeders.

Avian influenza symptoms include:

• Fever, cough, sore throat, runny or congested nose
• Muscle or body aches, headache, general fatigue
• Conjunctivitis (red eyes)
• Shortness of breath
• Less common symptoms include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and seizures

The city says if a person is experiencing any of these symptoms and have been in contact with wild birds or poultry in the previous 10 days, they should contact their doctor or nurse and should distance from others and wear a mask until assessment.