Avian Cholera outbreak in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada

[Ian David]

Biological Hazard - North-America - Canada

2:53 PM - Show original item

GLIDE Number: BH-20070130-9637-CAN
Date / time: 30/01/2007 19:51:28
Event: Biological Hazard
Area: North-America
Country: Canada
State/County: Newfoundland and Labrador
City: Unknow
Number of Deads: None or unknow
Number of Injured: None or unknow
Damage level: Minor

Description:
Avian cholera, a disease that can quickly kill bird populations, has been diagnosed in six dead seagulls, Newfoundland and Labrador's chief veterinarian reported Tuesday. Hugh Whitney said the disease poses minimal risk to humans.

However, the disease can cause what Whitney described as "large-scale die-offs in waterfowl and other bird populations."

Sick gulls have been reported at various offshore sites. As well, investigators are responding to reports of gull infections around the St. John's area, particularly at Quidi Vidi Lake in the city's east end. Quidi Vidi Lake is a frequent stop for seagulls, and is near both a large landfill and the Atlantic Ocean.

Whitney advised the public to avoid contact with birds that may be infected, and to keep pets away.

More:
http://hisz.rsoe.hu/alertmap/woalert_read.php?lang=eng&id=9637