An individual in British Columbia has tested presumptive positive for bird flu, caused by the H5 influenza virus, the first detection of avian influenza due to the H5 virus in a person in B.C.

This is also the first detection of a presumed human case acquired in Canada.

The individual is a teenager from the Fraser Health region who was receiving care at BC Children’s Hospital.

A public health investigation has been initiated to determine the source of exposure and identify any contacts.

“Our thoughts are with this young person and their family during this difficult time,” said Dr. Bonnie Henry, B.C.’s provincial health officer.

“This is a rare event, and while it is the first detected case of H5 in a person in B.C. or in Canada, there have been a small number of human cases in the U.S. and elsewhere, which is why we are conducting a thorough investigation to fully understand the source of exposure here in B.C.”

There have been no further cases identified at this time.

The source of exposure is very likely to be an animal or bird and is being investigated by B.C.’s chief veterinarian and public health teams.

Health, animal and environmental partners across B.C. have also been working together, along with with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency and other national and U.S. partners, to respond to the increased detections of H5N1 avian influenza in poultry farms and wild birds in the province since early October.

To learn more, visit Government of British Columbia.