Epidemic (animal)

Four species of bird harvested near Iqaluit between Sept. 4 and 11 tested positive for avian flu, the Department of Health advised on Sept. 29.
It’s the first time avian flu has been detected in Nunavut since 2024.
The risk of human infection is low, and eating fully cooked birds and eggs remains safe, according to Charmaine Deogracias, manager of communications at the Department of Health.
“Basic food safety measures are recommended for hunters and other bird handlers to reduce the risk of illness,” Deogracias said, adding that recommended safety measures include wearing gloves, washing hands with soap and warm water and cleaning soiled clothing and equipment as soon as possible.
Bird flu in humans is caused by close, prolonged contact with infected live or dead birds or in contaminated environments.
Nunavut News asked the Department of Health how many harvested birds tested positive for avian flu and which species were found to carry the virus.
Raptors, gulls, terns, shorebirds, ducks, geese and swans are all capable of catching avian flu.
Nervousness, trembling or lack of coordination, swelling around the head, neck and eyes, diarrhea or sudden death are all signs a bird has avian flu.
“Multiple dead birds in one location are a sign that the virus is present,” Deogracias said.