Avian flu still a threat, despite no recently reported cases

By Nunatsiaq News

Take care when harvesting wild birds and eggs, says Department of Health

Avian flu remains a threat in Nunavut, says the Department of Health.

While there have been no cases reported recently, people who partake in wild bird and egg harvesting should take precautions to limit the spread, the department said Friday in a public service announcement.

That includes wearing gloves when handling wild birds or eggs, washing hands with soap and water, and cleaning soiled clothes or equipment after handling wild birds or eggs.

The signs of avian flu in birds include swelling around the neck, eyes or head; multiple dead birds in one location; diarrhea; nervousness; and trembling or a lack of co-ordination.

The risk of bird-to-human infection is low and generally caused by prolonged, close contact with a sick bird, according to the public service announcement.

There is no evidence the virus can be transmitted to humans through consumption of fully cooked birds or eggs, the announcement said.

Anybody who notices unusual illness or death in birds should report it to the local environmental office.

The Department of Health confirmed the disease in a northern fulmar harvested near Resolute Bay in October 2024. Two months later, the department announced two ringed seals near Resolute Bay tested positive.