Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is a critical component in safeguarding individuals from exposure to harmful substances and environments. PPE at our clinic encompasses a variety of protective gear, including hard hats when entering raptor enclosures, changing gloves for each patient being handled, stepping in disinfecting foot baths to prevent outside viruses spreading inside the clinic, using dedicated boots for each room to avoid cross-contamination, wearing a gown, boot covers, respiratory masks and gloves when entering our isolation room. Adhering to strict PPE standards ensures maximum protection for our patients, team, and prevents the spread of disease.
Figure 1. Clinic staff adhering to the gloves and respiratory mask protocol when handling patients.
The Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza ( HPAI) , is a highly contagious viral infection primarily affecting avian species, however it has jumped to other species, which is why strict PPE protocols are crucial to prevent the spread.
Transmission of the bird flu virus can occur through several pathways: direct handling of infected animals, exposure to fecal matter, airborne particles, contaminated surfaces, and even through contaminated water. Understanding these transmission modes is vital for implementing effective prevention and control measures.
Research indicates that symptoms of bird flu can vary significantly among different bird species, with some birds not displaying any obvious signs of infection, but they can still transmit the virus to others. Diagnostic testing for animals typically involves the insertion of a cotton swab into the mouth, which is then securely contained and sent to a laboratory for analysis. The mortality rate of HPAI is extremely high.
For further information on the statistics of animals impacted by avian influenza in various provinces, please visit this link. To learn more about avian influenza and stay updated with the latest guidelines and information, visit the Government of Canada's pages here and here.
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