The latest case of the highly pathonegenic avian influenza in Saskatchewan was found just south of Moose Jaw in the RM of Baildon.

On the CFIA website it states it was found on a commercial poultry operation.

The Manager at the colony Peter Hofer says he wants to clarify the situation. 

"We have a duck operation where we raise ducks for our own personal consumption. The ducks did get infected with this bird flu, but with the protocal that we use in our commercial flock of layering hens there is no sign of the disease there."

He notes the laying hen operation is being monitored by the CFIA day-by-day to make sure it stays that way and there is no concern for the eggs coming from the colony.

He stresses they have very strict biosecurity protocols in place, are monitoring the birds closely and there is no sign of the disease in their laying hens.

Currently eight cases have been found in Saskatchewan. 

With the increased risk of avian influenza, Saskatchewan's Chief Veterinary Officer has issued a new animal health control order limiting the co-mingling of poultry.

The order prohibits the movement to and participation of birds in shows, auctions and agricultural fairs, as well as any other events where birds would be brought together from multiple locations.

Saskatchewan's new animal health control order is in effect until May 14, 2022.

Alberta now has a total of 24 cases, four of which came in this week.

The CFIA reporting three of the cases were found in commercial poultry operations located in Newell County, Lethbridge County and the Municipality of Wainright, while the fourth case was found in a small poultry flock in the County of Two Hills. 

The disease has had a major impact on Alberta's poultry operations with close to 900 thousand birds dead or  depopulated.

At this point there has only been one case of avian influenza found in Manitoba, and seven in British Columbia.

Once a case has been confirmed the operation placed under quarantine.

Poultry producers and small flock owners are reminded to follow all necessary biosecurity protocols to protect their flocks from the disease by keeping wild birds away from poultry flocks, their food and water supply, limiting visitors and monitoring bird health.

Small flock owners are also encouraged to confine their birds indoors if possible.

Health Canada says this is not a food safety issue and does not pose a food safety risk.

More information on biosecurity habits to protect poultry and prevent disease can be found here.