Avian Influenza Outbreak Canada 2004

Since 1975 low pathogenic avian influenza viruses have been isolated three times in Canada. The most recent outbreak was in Ontario in 2000. 

In February 2004 a H7 type of AI virus was isolated in the Fraser Valley area of the southern British-Columbia.  Highly pathogenic virus was initially isolated from a broiler breeder flock experiencing high mortality.  From one farm infected mid-February,  37 other farms were AI positive by 23 April.  By June 2004, 42 commercial farms and 11 backyard premises were depopulated and approximately 19 million birds were destroyed.

The strain initially isolated in these cases was LP H7N3, this strain mutated into a highly pathogenic strain. This virus is different to the Asian strain and does not cause severe respiratory disease in man.  However, mild conjunctivitis has been diagnosed in people in close contact with infected birds.

For updated information visit the Canadian Food Inspection Agency website.

• Avian Influenza in British Columbia (English)
• Influenza Aviaire en Columbie-Britannique (French)