Lambton Public Health says H5N1 avian influenza has been detected in birds within Lambton County, although the risk to humans is said to be low.
The spread is mainly attributed to the migration of infected waterfowl.
LPH is working alongside the Ontario Ministry of Health, the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness (OMAFA), and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) to contain, monitor, and respond to the situation.
The viral disease mostly affects domestic poultry and wildlife such as geese, ducks, and shore birds, and no human cases have been reported in Ontario.
Only people who have worked with the affected birds are considered at risk, and the health unit is following up with them.
The H5N1 virus was first detected in Ontario in March 2022, and the same strain was also found across the world, including in other Canadian provinces and American states.
Lambton Medical Officer of Health Dr. Karalyn Dueck said as a precaution people should not handle any wild animals, and should keep pets away from sick or dead animals.
"The risk of avian influenza for the general public remains low, however, the risk is higher for those who work with sick animals or in contaminated environments, such as farmers. Individuals should take precautions when interacting with and handling birds," she said.
Residents are encouraged to report any sick or dead birds to the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative by calling 1-800-673-4781.
Recommendations for individuals with backyard chickens or other domestic birds are available on the OMAFA website.
For more information about avian influenza, visit the Ontario Ministry of Health’s website.