Residents warned to avoid contact with wild birds: MLHU

The Middlesex-London Health Unit (MLHU) is reminding the public not to touch wild birds, following the positive identification of several wild birds who died from avian influenza this winter.

Locally, three Canadian Geese recently found deceased in London and Strathroy tested positive for the highly pathogenic strain of H5NX.

“Transmission from birds to humans is very rare, however, we ask that you avoid contact with wild birds, particularly carcasses. Keep your pets away from them too,” said Dr. Joanne Kearon, associate medical officer of health with the MLHU.

Given the frequency of reported findings of H5NX, MLHU said it will not individually report each bird that tests positive but instead will notify the community should public health guidance change, and more precautions be required.

If you encounter a dead waterfowl or other wild bird, the health unit advises you to report it to the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative which will oversee collection of the bird and testing.