‘No risk to food safety’: Avian flu discovery in Alberta prompts reassurance from agriculture minister
Posted Apr 12, 2022 4:33 pm.
Eggs and chicken are safe to eat despite an outbreak of avian flu in the province, says Alberta’s minister of agriculture, forestry, and rural development.
“Recently, Alberta poultry farms have tested positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), which was previously detected in migratory waterfowl, backyard flocks, and commercial poultry flocks in the eastern United States, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, and in a wild bird in Vancouver,” Nate Horner said in a statement.
“Albertans can be assured there is no risk to food safety and that the risk to human health is extremely low.”
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Horner says the cases were discovered quickly and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is leading the investigation into them.
The province is supporting the CFIA with testing, mapping, and whatever else they may need.
“We are in regular contact with the CFIA, industry, producers, and other stakeholders to ensure a timely, coordinated, and effective response,” Horner said. “This case is an important reminder of the importance of strict biosecurity measures and early detection.
“HPAI is a reportable disease, so if you suspect or confirm a case in your flock, you are required to report it to the CFIA or the Office of the Chief Provincial Veterinarian.”
–With files from Pete Curtis
