BC Teen Has Caught Canada’s First Case Of Bird Flu

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On Nov. 9, BC’s first ever case of bird flu – also known as avian flu or avian influenza A(H5N1) – was recorded and confirmed. BC health officials have been conducting an ongoing investigation, but have not yet been able to determine how the teen contracted the virus.

“These investigations can be challenging and it is not always possible to identify the source of the infection,” according to the statement from Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC). Anyone who has been exposed to the virus has been tested and provided with antiviral medication to prevent infection and further spread. 

According to PHAC, the risk of contracting the virus is very low; there have been less than 1,000 known cases worldwide since it was first identified in humans 1997. “The Public Health Agency of Canada is working with our human and animal health partners to swiftly investigate and respond to this case,” Dr. Teresa Tam, the Chief Public Health Officer of Canada, said in the PHAC statement.

Symptoms of the virus can be mild or severe and include fever, sore throat, cough, stuffy or runny nose, muscle aches, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and pink eye. The most recent cases of bird flu have caused pink eye and mild respiratory symptoms. Bird flu can often cause severe illness and possible complications like pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome, bacterial infections, sepsis, brain swelling (meningoencephalitis), and respiratory failure.

There are many effective methods to prevent the spread of the virus. Examples include refraining from handling wild animals (especially birds), keeping pets away from dead wildlife, and advising farmers to use personal protective equipment when dealing with livestock.