BONNYVILLE - Avian influenza has been confirmed to be the cause of death of several Canada Geese and other birds found along Jessie Lake in July.
On July 23, The Town of Bonnyville released an advisory informing the public that it was made aware of concerns regarding Canada Geese found deceased and acting ill in the area of Jessie Lake.
At the time, the cause was unknown. Provincial Fish and Wildlife authorities had been notified and were assisting municipal officials with the investigation.
“Alberta Fish and Wildlife was contacted and confirmed Avian Influenza was the cause,” stated the Town of Bonnyville on Aug. 8. “Clean-up efforts by Public Works are still underway and are being addressed as time permits.”
As explained in information released by the Town of Bonnyville, Avian Influenza, also known as avian flu, is a contagious viral disease that affects various domestic and wild bird species.
The disease mostly impacts waterfowl such as ducks and geese, and can also spread to poultry animals, including turkeys, ducks, and chickens.
“According to the Government of Alberta, the risk to the public from the current strains of avian flu is low,” said the Town of Bonnyville, adding that people who notice clusters or groups of dead waterfowl can report them toll-free at 310-0000.
According to Town of Bonnyville CAO Quinton Wintfley, the municipality contacted Alberta Environment and Fish and Wildlife to report the issues observed at Jessie Lake.
“The relevant authorities collected bird specimens for testing. During this period, the Town followed guidance provided by Alberta Fish and Wildlife in collecting deceased birds along the shoreline and supported the testing process by supplying specimens as requested,” Wintfley told Lakeland This Week.
The Town was not leading the overall investigation and was providing support, primarily through cleanup efforts.
The Town of Bonnyville remains committed to supporting its provincial partners in addressing this matter, and will continue to follow their guidance, as needed, said Wintfley.
“We thank Alberta Environment, Alberta Health, and Alberta Fish and Wildlife for their leadership and expertise,” he said, explaining that residents with concerns are encouraged to contact the appropriate authorities for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
“The health and safety of our community remains our top priority.”
Members of the public are being advised not to handle live or dead wild birds.
For those who must handle birds, it is recommended to wear disposable gloves or cover their hands with a plastic bag before touching any bird. People are also advised to use a stick or similar tool to move the bird into a bag to be placed into their garbage bin for disposal.
“Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water afterward,” recommends the Town of Bonnyville. “Disinfect any surfaces that may have come into contact with the bird using alcohol, diluted bleach, or a commercial disinfectant.”
