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Officials with the Nunavut government said Tuesday that avian influenza had been confirmed in some birds harvested near Frobisher Bay in Iqaluit earlier this month.
Avian influenza is a viral infection which is very contagious in wild birds and domestic poultry.
These are the first known cases of avian flu in the territory since December 2024, when the virus was confirmed in two ringed seals, near Resolute Bay.
This time, the virus was detected in four species of birds harvested near Frobisher Bay in Iqaluit, between Sept. 4 and 11. Officials did not provide more details about affected animals.
While the risk of infection in the general public is low, officials said precautions should be taken by hunters and others who handle birds to reduce the risk of illness. People who handle and process harvested birds are advised to wear gloves, wash hands with soap and water and to clean soiled clothing and equipment right away after use.
Officials said there is no evidence that the virus can be transmitted to humans by consuming fully cooked game bird meat or eggs, and most cases of the virus in humans are the result of close and prolonged contact with infected live or dead birds, or areas contaminated with the virus.
Signs a bird might be infected with bird flu include: nervousness, trembling or lack of coordination, and swelling around the head, neck and eyes. If there are multiple dead birds found in one area, that’s a sign the virus is present, officials said.