A case of avian flu was confirmed in Rouge National Urban Park on Tuesday, the Central Lake Ontario Conservation (Cloca) reported yesterday.
According to Cloca, diseases such as avian influenza occur in birds and bird populations, but steps can be taken to stop the spread and protect birds. The disease caused by the influenza A virus, primarily affects birds but can affect mammals including humans.
Officials advise the public to avoid contact with birds, particularly waterfowl, gulls or other water birds. This includes not handling or feeding birds.
According to park officials, people and their dogs should not touch or approach wildlife, including animals that are dead or appear sick or injured. Officials also remind pet owners that pets must be leashed at all times and kept on trails in conservation areas.
Sick or dead birds can be reported directly to the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative online at http://www.cwhc-rcsf.ca/report_and_submit.php or by phone at 1-800-567-2033, according to the cooperative. More information is available at www.canada.ca/avian-flu.
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