Lambton Public Health (LPH) is investigating a second confirmed report of H5N1 avian influenza detected in a local poultry flock.
The health unit said the investigation is separate from the one announced on March 14.
LPH has been working with the Ontario Ministry of Health, the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness (OMAFRA), and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency to contain, monitor, and respond to the situation.
The health unit said avian influenza is a viral disease that mostly affects domestic poultry and wildlife such as geese, ducks, and shore birds.
At this time, no human cases of the virus have been reported in Ontario or Lambton County.
“The risk of avian influenza continues to remain low for the general public, however, we would like to once again remind those who work with sick animals or in contaminated environments – such as farmers – to take precautions when interacting with or handling birds,” said Lambton Medical Officer of Health Dr. Karalyn Dueck.
The health unit is conducting follow-ups with those who have worked with the affected birds.
As a precaution, residents are asked not to handle live or dead wild birds or animals and to keep pets away from sick or dead animals.
Those with backyard chickens or other domestic birds can find a list of recommendations on OMAFRA's website.
Sick or dead birds can be reported to the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative at 1-866-673-4781.