The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has confirmed the presence of bird flu in Windsor-Essex.
According to a notice posted on the Government of Canada's official website, highly pathogenic avian influenza has been detected at a poultry farm in Amherstburg.
The bird flu, caused by Type-A influenza infections, was first found on Thursday.
The CFIA has established a primary control zone (PCZ), which currently covers most of the Town of Amherstburg and portions of southern LaSalle.
Permits are required to move poultry, their products, and their byproducts in and out of this primary control zone.
An infected zone is included within the PCZ, and it includes the immediate vicinity of the poultry farm, which has not been named.
The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU) said that it is aware of the situation and is working with federal officials.
"Through coordinated monitoring and follow-up measures, we are ensuring that every appropriate step is taken to safeguard the health of those who may have come in contact with infected birds," read a statement from the health unit.
Windsor-Essex Medical Officer of Health Dr. Mehdi Aloosh said there is little risk of transmission to humans.
"Human infections with avian influenza are rare and typically only occur through close contact with infected animals," said Aloosh. "Residents can be assured that the WECHU is actively monitoring the situation and working with all partners to keep the risk low. If new information arises or if the level of public risk changes, the health unit will communicate updates."
Highly pathogenic bird flu can cause serious illness and death in birds.
Complete information about the bird flu may be found on the federal government's website.
