Avian influenza confirmed in two birds in the NWT – what you need to know

Public Service Announcement

Yellowknife — June 6, 2025

The Department of Environment and Climate Change (ECC) has confirmed two cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), otherwise known as bird flu, in a raven and a ring-billed gull in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories . ECC will continue to conduct additional testing on any potential cases of HPAI should they occur. There have been 9 confirmed cases of HPAI in birds in the Northwest Territories since 2022.

Testing identified the H5 strain, consistent with HPAI, which is highly infectious among birds. There is no sign of an outbreak, and risk to other birds remains low. While the transmission of bird flu to humans is rare and relatively mild in nature, the NWT Chief Public Health Officer, Dr. Kami Kandola, advises residents to remain cautious when handling birds.

Safety Guidelines for the Public

  • Don’t handle wild birds that are found dead or live birds acting strangely. Don’t touch surfaces that could be contaminated.
  • Report sightings of sick, injured, or dead wildlife to your ECC Regional Office as soon as possible. Provide details such as the date, time, location, and a brief description.
  • If you are experiencing any respiratory or flu-like symptoms, AND have been recently (within 10 days) in contact with wild birds or domestic birds showing signs of illness,  reach out to your local health centre or call 811 immediately for assessment and advise them of your bird exposure. Seasonal Influenza vaccines do not offer protection against Influenza A(H5N1).

Tips for Safe Handling of Birds

If you hunt wild birds:

  • Wear gloves and wash hands frequently while dressing them.
  • Process birds in a well-ventilated area, like the outdoors.
  • Disinfect equipment, surfaces, and clothing afterward.
  • Cook meat to an internal temperature of at least 165 °F (74 °C).

Learn More

 

For media requests, please contact:

Communications and Public Affairs
Environment and Climate Change
Government of the Northwest Territories
ecc_communications@gov.nt.ca

 

Communications
Health and Social Services
Government of the Northwest Territories
HSSmedia@gov.nt.ca