n a recent report from Canada, Dr. Bonnie Henry, the provincial health officer of British Columbia, strongly advocates for the influenza vaccination of individuals residing or working on poultry farms. While transmission of avian flu to humans is not common, Dr. Henry underscores the potential for infections, highlighting the risk of the virus mutating into a more dangerous form.
Emphasizing the importance of prompt vaccination against human strains, Dr. Henry aims to mitigate the risk of co-infection with both human and bird viruses, which could lead to the development of a more infectious influenza virus. The recent avian flu outbreak has impacted 16 farms in British Columbia, with nine commercial infected zones primarily located in the Fraser Valley, according to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.
Dr. Henry anticipates a surge in infected flocks, especially with the return of migratory seabirds in the fall. This observation is crucial, considering that the last cluster of outbreaks was triggered by spring migrations. Caution is urged, particularly for individuals in close contact with birds, such as poultry farm workers and farm families.
The report also reveals that British Columbia has already administered over one million influenza vaccines and nearly 850,000 COVID-19 shots since the launch of its respiratory immunization campaign in October. This proactive vaccination approach aims to safeguard both the poultry industry and public health amidst the potential risks associated with avian flu outbreaks.
