Certain turkeys and chickens in Mission are required to remain indoors due to an increase in Avian Influenza cases.
According to an advisory from the City of Mission on the Alertable app on Wednesday (Sept. 18), those who are responsible for chickens and turkeys that are regulated by a BC Commission or marketing board are now required to keep the animal indoors until further notice.
However, the advisory doesn't apply to those with backyard animals or backyard chicken coops.
"Avian influenza, or "bird flu" is a contagious viral infection that primarily affects birds but can infect humans and other mammals (wild or domestic). If you have backyard animals (chickens, turkeys, ducks, pigs, goats etc.) you should know the signs of avian infection in animals and how to keep you and your family safe," the advisory reads.
The alert suggests those with backyard animals should consider registering them with the Ministry of Agriculture Premises ID program.
This program supports disease control measures to reduce animal losses and animal evacuations during emergencies, in addition to notifications for animal health threats in your area.
