Testing confirms B.C. teen infected with Canada's first human case of avian flu
Federal health officials have confirmed that a B.C. teen who is currently in hospital has Canada's first human case of H5N1 avian flu.
Testing at the national microbiology labaratory in Winnipeg confirmed the case Wednesday, according to the Public Health Agency of Canada.
"This is the first domestically acquired human case of H5N1 avian influenza," a statement from the agency said.
"The genomic sequencing result indicates that the virus is related to the avian influenza H5N1 viruses from the ongoing outbreak in poultry in British Columbia."
An investigation is underway by B.C. heath officials, who have not been able to determine how the teen contracted the virus. Close contacts of the teen have been tested and provided with antiviral medication to prevent infection and prevent further spread.
"These investigations can be challenging and it is not always possible to identify the source of the infection," the statement from PHAC says.
Human infection, according to the agency, is rare. Those most likely to contract the virus are those "in close contact with infected birds, other infected animals or highly contaminated environments."
The risk to the general public at this time is low, PHAC says.
Dr. Teresa Tam, chief public health officer of Canada, said her thoughts are with the critically ill teen, their family, and the health-care workers involved in the teen's treatment.
"The Public Health Agency of Canada is working with our human and animal health partners to swiftly investigate and respond to this case," Tam said in the PHAC statement.
"We must continue to remain vigilant in our efforts to prevent the spread of avian influenza between animals and to humans."
Steps people can take to prevent the spread of avian influenza include refraining from handling wild animals and birds – living or dead. Pets should also be kept away from dead wildlife. Farmers are urged to use personal protective equipment.
More information on avian flu is available online.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
2 Canadians confirmed dead in Poland, as consular officials gather information
Two Canadians have died following an incident in Poland, CTV News has learned.
Downtown Vancouver stabbing suspect dead after being shot by police
A suspect is dead after being shot by police in a Vancouver convenience store after two people were injured in a stabbing Wednesday morning, according to authorities.
DEVELOPING As police search for suspect, disturbing video surfaces after U.S. health-care CEO gunned down in New York
UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson was killed Wednesday morning in what investigators suspect was a targeted shooting outside a Manhattan hotel where the health insurer was holding an investor conference.
'Utterly absurd': Freeland rebuffs Poilievre's offer of two hours to present fall economic statement
Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland has rebuffed Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre's offer to give up two hours of scheduled opposition time next Monday to present the awaited fall economic statement as 'utterly absurd.'
Canada Post stores continue to operate during strike — but why?
As many postal workers continue to strike across the country, some Canadians have been puzzled by the fact some Canada Post offices and retail outlets remain open.
Toddler fatally shot after his 7-year-old brother finds a gun in the family's truck
A two-year-old boy was fatally shot when his seven-year-old brother found a gun in the glovebox of the family's truck in Southern California, authorities said.
Mattel sued over 'Wicked' dolls with porn website link
Mattel was sued this week by a South Carolina mother for mistakenly putting a link to an adult film site on the packaging for its dolls tied to the movie 'Wicked.'
Mitch Marner to wear red and white Maple Leaf as Canada rounds out 4 Nations roster
Mitch Marner was among the 15 players added to Canada's roster for the NHL 4 Nations Face-Off tournament Wednesday.
Transport Minister to summon airline CEOs as Air Canada set to charge carry-on fees for some passengers
Transport Minister Anita Anand says she will be calling Canadian airline CEOs to a meeting in mid-December after Air Canada says it will charge some passengers for carry-on bags in the new year.