News Release

FREDERICTON (GNB) – A positive case of avian influenza has been detected in New Brunswick.

The Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative confirmed on Monday that a greater black-backed gull in the Riverview area tested positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1).

Avian influenza is a viral infection that can spread easily and quickly among birds. There are several types of avian influenza. Some wild bird species, such as ducks, can carry the virus and infect other birds without getting sick themselves. Other wild or domestic bird species are more likely to become severely ill and die when infected with some types of avian influenza.

Although the chances of people getting sick from avian influenza are extremely low, people who work around birds should take extra care. As a general precaution, people should not handle wild birds, dead or alive. Should you discover a sick or dead bird, contact the Department of Natural Resources and Energy Development at 1-833-301-0334.

More information on avian influenza is available online.