ARTICLE FROM: UofG News
The discovery of avian influenza virus (H5N2) on a turkey farm in southwestern Ontario has put the poultry industry on alert. To date, 29 farms have been placed under quarantine.
Dr. Shayan Sharif, a professor at the Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College and leader of the Poultry Health Research Network, discussed the recent avian flu outbreak, including control measures enacted by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, in a number of media interviews. Sharif’s group studies the avian influenza virus and vaccines against this virus.
Sharif was interviewed by CBC News and CTV News on April 7, by TVO on April 10, by the Toronto Sun on April 12, and by CBC Ontario Morning on April 13.
Researchers at the University of Guelph are developing vaccines as well as other measures for control of the spread of avian influenza virus in poultry populations and its possible transmission to humans.
To learn more about the Poultry Health Research Network please visit the PHRN website and follow them on twitter @PHRN_
Links
CBC News: Avian flu puts 8 Ontario farms under quarantine (April 7, 2015)
CTV News 8 Ont. farms quarantined over Avian influenza (April 7, 2015)
TVO Why the avian flu outbreak in southern Ontario is not a significant public health issue (April 10, 2015)
Toronto Sun Ontario’s avian flu quarantine expanded (April 12, 2015)
The Ontario Animal Health Network (OAHN) at the University of Guelph has also created a Avian influenza information checklist for non-poultry veterinarians. In the event the avian influenza virus spreads to small flocks or pet birds, ANY veterinarian may be called upon to give advice and help their clients, or they may receive calls from area residents with small flocks.