The Departments of Environment and Health have confirmed cases of avian influenza in two ringed seals collected near Resolute Bay in October 2024. This follows the detection of avian influenza found in a seabird that same month.

There have been no known reported cases of transmission to other animals or humans in either of these cases.

Avian influenza, or bird flu, is a viral infection that is highly contagious among birds and found in domestic poultry and wild birds including raptors, gulls, terns, shorebirds, ducks, geese, and swans.

In recent months, the virus has also been detected in mammals, including species found in the Arctic.

Signs that wildlife could have avian influenza include nervousness, trembling or lack of coordination, swelling around the head, neck and eyes, as well as diarrhea or sudden death.

Multiple dead birds or mammals in one location may be a sign that the virus is present.

There is no currently evidence of mammal-to-mammal transmission of the disease. Cases in mammals are almost exclusively linked to direct contact with infected birds. The risk of avian influenza infection in the general public is considered low.

There is also no evidence to suggest that bird flu can be transmitted to humans through the consumption of fully cooked mammals, game birds, or eggs. In general, human cases of avian influenza are caused by close and prolonged contact with infected wildlife (alive or dead) or contaminated meat.

Basic food safety measures are recommended for hunters and other handlers to reduce the risk of illness and the spread of the virus include wearing gloves; washing hands with soap and warm water; as well as cleaning soiled clothing and equipment as soon as possible.

Guidance on best practices to reduce the risk of human infection has been developed by the Public Health Agency of Canada and the GN, and can be found at the .

You're asked to report any unusual death or illness in wildlife to a conservation officer and those who feel sick after handling wildlife should contact their local health centre.

The GN also stated that it will not continue reporting subsequent confirmed cases. You can visit the Government of CanadaSA¹ú¼ÊÓ°ÊÓ´«Ã½™s for live data on cases of avian influenza in Canada.