The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has urged producers and backyard flock owners to practice biosecurity in the wake of the H7N9 avian influenza virus that has been linked to human illnesses in China.

According to the agency, the bird flu in China has not been identified in either birds or people in Canada to date. Canada does not import raw poultry products or live birds from China.

However, as avian influenza viruses are known to circulate in the wild bird population and can be transmitted to domestic poultry, the agency has asked producers to protect their flocks by practicing biosecurity.

The CFIA has outlined the following three biosecurity measures to help protect poultry health - do not allow poultry or their feed and water to have contact with wild birds; control movements of people, animals, equipment and vehicles on your property; observe the animals daily for signs of disease.

If the birds are suspected to be sick, the producers should immediately contact a veterinarian, the provincial ministry of agriculture, or a local CFIA office, the agency said.

The World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) has reported that the H7N9 virus currently circulating in China is a low pathogenicity virus in poultry that has been linked to human illness. Poultry that are infected with this strain or other low pathogenicity avian influenza viruses may show limited or no evidence of disease.

In light of the current situation in China, the agency is currently working with its partners to explore options for enhancing surveillance in wild birds.

In addition, the agency said that Canadians can help protect themselves and their fellow citizens from influenza in general by washing hands frequently; covering coughs and sneezes; keeping common surfaces clean; and staying home when sick.