Goose tests positive for avian influenza in St. Thomas

Southwestern Public Health in St. Thomas seen on Saturday Dec 19, 2020 (Brent Lale/CTV News)

The City of St. Thomas is warning residents to avoid contact with wild birds and bird droppings after one Canada goose tested positive for avian influenza.

The affected bird was found at a pond near the Fanshawe College campus, located at 120 Bill Martyn Parkway.

According to officials, several sick and deceased birds have recently been reported within the community.

Mayor Joe Preston said, “The City of St. Thomas is closely monitoring the situation in partnership with local and provincial agencies. We are taking the necessary steps to protect both the public and wildlife, and we encourage residents to follow the safety precautions outlined by health authorities.”

While avian influenza has been detected in wild birds across Canada, the risk of transmission to humans remains very low, officials say.

For more information about avian influenza and how to protect yourself, visit Southwestern Public Health’s avian influenza page or contact the health unit directly.