Update On Human Avian Influenza Case In B.C.

The Province is providing what it is calling a final update on a human avian influenza case.

A multi-agency public health investigation into the case involving a B.C. teenager has identified no additional cases nor evidence of human-to-human transmission.

“Our thoughts continue to be with this young person as they remain in critical condition, and their family,” said Dr. Bonnie Henry, B.C.’s provincial health officer.

“I am confident in the extensive public health investigation that was led by the Fraser Health team in partnership with the BCCDC Public Health Laboratory, our partners at BC Children’s Hospital and the chief veterinary officer. Though we have not been able to determine definitively the source of exposure, we were able to rule out many potential risks and ensure there are no further cases related to this young person.”

The goals of the investigation were to identify any contacts who may have had exposure to the teenager, determine the source of exposure, and ensure that there was no risk of new infections from either the teenager or animal sources.

The investigation also included testing of household pets, birds and other animals from nearby premises, and environmental (soil, water) testing.

To date, all tests on humans, animals and environmental samples related to the investigation have been negative. While it is reassuring that no further cases have been identified, officials have also not been able to definitively identify the source of the young person’s infection.

While this was the first case of H5N1 in a person in B.C. and the first acquired in Canada, there have been a small number of human cases in the U.S. this year, including one reported in a child in California last week.

To learn more, visit Government of British Columbia.