Brampton –
Previously reported deceased waterfowl found in the areas of Professor’s Lake and Duncan Valley Foster South have tested positive for Avian Influenza (bird flu).
Specimens were sent to the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative (CWHC), where Avian Influenza (bird flu) was confirmed as the cause of death.
The City of Brampton Animal Services team is actively monitoring the situation and working with all government partners.
The risk of Avian Influenza (bird flu) spreading to humans is extremely rare. There are no indicators of increasing risk to the general public at this time.
To help protect the health and safety of residents and pets, the City of Brampton is providing tips below in response to an increasing number of deceased waterfowl.
Pet owners are being asked to take the following precautions:
• Keep animals away from any waterfowl or fecal matter
• Do not feed or otherwise interact with the waterfowl
• Keep cats indoors
• Keep dogs on a leash (as required under the municipal by-law)
• Do not feed pets (e.g., dogs or cats) any raw meat from game birds or poultry
• Pet birds, if not normally kept indoors, should be restricted to the indoors
• Bird feeders should be removed or washed with soap and water frequently to reduce the chance of bacterial or viral contamination
At this time, all public spaces where deceased waterfowl have been discovered remain open to the public. Signage will be added to make the general public aware that waterfowl in the area could be infected with Avian Influenza (bird flu).
If members of the public discover deceased waterfowl they are being asked to call 3-1-1.
Additional information on Canadian Geese can be found on the City of Brampton website here.
More information on Avian Influenza (bird flu) can be found on the Government of Canada website here.