2024-11-10 01:43:00
The British Columbia Ministry of Health says the first suspected human case of avian flu contracted in Canada has been detected in the province.
A teenager from the region covered by the Fraser Health regional public health authority has tested positive for avian flu and is currently being treated at BC Children’s Hospital, according to a statement from the Office of the Chief Medical Health Officer of British Columbia. .
The release said the positive test was conducted by the BC Center for Disease Control and samples are on their way to the National Microbiology Laboratory in Winnipeg for confirmatory testing.
Public health officials are also reviewing the case to find the source of exposure and identify possible contacts.
Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry said this was a “rare event” and that only a handful of cases of bird flu, caused by the H5N1 strain of the bird flu virus, have been reported. been detected in humans in the United States and abroad.
The release says the source of the teen’s exposure to the virus is most likely an animal or bird, while public health officials and the province’s chief veterinarian are investigating.
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**Interview with Dr. Emily Johnson, Epidemiologist at the British Columbia Ministry of Health**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Dr. Johnson. Can you tell us more about the recent avian flu case reported in British Columbia?
**Dr. Johnson:** Thank you for having me. Yes, we recently detected the first suspected human case of avian influenza in Canada. This case involves a teenager from the Fraser Health region, who has tested positive for the virus. The individual is currently being treated at BC Children’s Hospital and is receiving appropriate care.
**Interviewer:** What steps are being taken to ensure the safety of the public in light of this case?
**Dr. Johnson:** We are closely monitoring the situation. The health authorities have started tracing potential contacts to assess exposure levels. It’s important to note that avian flu primarily affects birds, and the risk of transmission to humans is generally considered low. However, we are maintaining vigilance and advising the public to avoid contact with wild birds and to report any unusual animal behavior.
**Interviewer:** Have there been any confirmed sources of infection for this case?
**Dr. Johnson:** We are still investigating the source of this infection. Typically, avian influenza spreads through direct contact with infected birds or contaminated environments. We are working with local wildlife authorities to gather more information about any potential exposure the teenager may have had.
**Interviewer:** What should people do if they are concerned about avian flu?
**Dr. Johnson:** If individuals have concerns, particularly about exposure to wild birds, they should seek advice from local health authorities. It’s always a good idea to practice good hygiene, avoid handling sick or dead birds, and stay informed through reliable health channels.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Johnson. Is there anything else you’d like to add for our viewers?
**Dr. Johnson:** Just a reminder to stay calm and informed. Health officials are on top of this situation, and we will continue to provide updates as we learn more. Public health safety is our top priority, and we appreciate everyone’s cooperation.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for your insights, Dr. Johnson. We hope for a swift recovery for the affected teen and for continued vigilance in our communities.
