Released on October 19, 2022
The Animal Health Control Area Order that was set to expire on October 21, 2022 has been extended until November 17, 2022. This is due to continued outbreaks of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in domestic poultry. The order from Saskatchewan's Chief Veterinary Officer prohibits the movement to and participation of birds in shows, auctions and agricultural fairs, as well as any other events where birds would be brought together from multiple locations.
The Animal Health Control Area Order helps to reduce direct contact between birds from different locations, thereby reducing risk of disease transmission between flocks. The primary source of HPAI spread is linked to wild birds, so the risk of disease spread will remain high throughout the rest of the fall migration season, which typically occurs until mid-November.
Poultry producers and small flock owners are reminded to follow all necessary biosecurity protocols to protect their flocks from the disease. Small flock owners are encouraged to confine their birds indoors, if possible, during wild bird migration. Producers should contact their veterinarian immediately if they have concerns about the health status of their flocks. HPAI is a federally reportable disease and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency is currently leading the HPAI response, with support from the provincial government. Further information on how to protect flocks and recognize the disease is available at www.saskatchewan.ca/avian-influenza-poultry.
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For more information, contact:
Jamie Shanks
Agriculture
Regina
Phone: 306-787-5155
Email: jamie.shanks2@gov.sk.ca