Manitoba bird die-off samples test positive for H5N1

Samples taken after a large bird die-off in southern Manitoba tested positive for the highly pathogenic H5N1 strain, and authorities reported about 500 dead birds were found in early December.

Samples from a large bird die-off in southern Manitoba tested positive for the H5N1 strain of avian influenza, officials said. About 500 dead birds, mostly Canada geese, were found in early December near waterways north of Winnipeg and in ponds near Niverville. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency said it sent 39 wild bird samples to the National Centre for Foreign Animal Disease and that lab analysis confirmed 38 were positive for highly pathogenic H5N1. A University of Manitoba researcher said she was relieved the samples matched the H5N1 strain already circulating in North America and noted the virus can sometimes persist in the environment. Known details: - About 500 dead birds were found in early December in southern Manitoba, with clusters near the Red River and ponds in Niverville. - The Canadian Food Inspection Agency submitted 39 wild bird samples for testing; 38 tested positive for highly pathogenic H5N1. - Researchers said the detected strain matches the H5N1 variant already predominant among North American poultry and wild birds. - Officials noted that avian influenza can persist in the environment, but the duration and extent of that persistence are uncertain. Summary: The lab confirmation identifies the strain involved in the die-off and informs ongoing surveillance and response by animal health authorities. The finding highlights continuing concerns about avian influenza in wild and domestic birds in the region. Undetermined at this time.