Suspected avian influenza found in small backyard flock in Halton

Article

Nov 02, 2026

Quick facts

Halton Region Public Health is investigating a small backyard flock of domestic poultry, that recently died at a private property in Halton. Initial testing indicates the presence of Avian Influenza (H5). The investigation includes close collaboration with the Ontario Ministry of Health, and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency to respond to the situation.
Avian Influenza is a type of influenza A virus that primarily circulates among wild birds but can also affect domestic and commercial poultry flocks, including chickens, turkeys, and ducks.
Testing for avian influenza is only recommended for symptomatic individuals with known exposure to an infected bird and/or contaminated environment. Asymptomatic testing is not recommended at this time.
For information about the positive backyard flock in Halton Region, please refer to media release.
Visit the avian influenza webpage for additional information.

Key messages for healthcare providers

Avian influenza does not easily cross from birds to humans and there has been no sustained human-to-human transmission.
While human to human transmission is rare, symptoms of avian influenza when it does occur are very similar to symptoms of seasonal influenza and COVID-19.
To test symptomatic individuals who have been exposed to avian influenza, refer to the Public Health Ontario Laboratory website for Specimen Collection and Handling for Avian Influenza (external link) and complete the General Test Requisition form (external PDF) and include the following information:
- Test(s) Requested: Avian Influenza, COVID-19 PCR, and Multiplex Respiratory Virus PCR (MRVP)
- Outbreak field: ONT-2022-00001
- Travel history, exposure history and clinical information must be provided.
- Call the Public Health Ontario Laboratory at 416-235-6556 to provide notice that sample will be submitted.
- Symptomatic individuals with a potential exposure history who are being tested should be reported to Public Health at 311 or 905-825-6000.
Antiviral drugs such as oseltamivir can reduce the duration of illness if administered within 48 hours of symptoms onset. Antiviral prophylaxis may be considered for individuals who have been exposed to large numbers of infected poultry or a contaminated environment without using full, appropriate personal protective equipment as per Management of Avian Influenza or Novel Influenza in Birds or Animals Guideline, 2025 (external PDF).
There is no vaccine for avian influenza indicated for use in Canada at this time. Vaccination for seasonal influenza is recommended.
Follow routine practices with contact and droplet precautions if patient is visiting your office.

Key messages for patients

Encourage annual seasonal influenza vaccination.
Advise patient to self-monitor for signs and symptoms for 10 days from last exposure to infected birds. If they develop symptoms, ask them to self-isolate, inform public health, and their health care provider.
If questions arise regarding avian influenza, call 905-825-6000 or dial 311.

Additional resources

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