A local wildlife refuge has confirmed that positive cases of bird flu have been identified.
Wings Rehab Centre, based in Amherstburg, reported that several cases of avian influenza had been identified.
"You may have seen staff dressed in full PPE and triaging waterfowl and raptors that have been rushed into our care," read a post on the centre's Facebook page. "After running tests and labs with our partners at a lab we have received several positive cases of waterfowl that have tested positive for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza [H5NX]."
Wings Rehab said that staff and volunteers have been diligently working to isolate unwell waterfowl. They will continue to accept waterfowl and raptors, but strict protocols are in place to prevent any spread and to protect those who are specifically assigned to their care.
"If you come across injured waterfowl, raptors, or any birds please use caution when handling and transporting injured wildlife," read the Facebook post. "Current best practices include wearing gloves, mask, and thoroughly washing hands and clothes after coming into contact with infected wildlife. Please call the wildlife hotline if you come across a suspected case of H5NX or find an injured bird in need of medical treatment."
The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit confirmed Tuesday to WindsorNewsToday.ca. that it's been in contact with Wings Rehab.
"At this time, there is no confirmed transmission to humans related to these cases in our region," read the health unit's statement. "Although the risk of Avian Influenza for humans in Windsor-Essex remains low, transmission between infected animals and humans is possible. Residents are encouraged to take precautions in their interactions with any wild and domestic birds, livestock, or other animals by avoiding exposure and notifying their municipal animal control program if they observe an animal that appears to be sick or may have died from unknown causes."
