PSA: Two cases of avian influenza confirmed in ravens in Yellowknife

Sharing on behalf of GNWT

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YELLOWKNIFE (March 11, 2026) – Two cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), otherwise known as bird flu, have been confirmed in common ravens in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, as part of ongoing monitoring for HPAI in NWT wildlife. Testing identified the H5 strain of HPAI, which is highly infectious among birds. These appear to be isolated cases, and the risk to birds and other wildlife remains low.

There have been 11 confirmed cases in birds in the Northwest Territories since 2022, and no human cases reported. 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.As warmer weather approaches, the Government of Northwest Territories would like to re-iterate public safety advice with respect to Avian Flu.

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 by sick birds.

• 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).  However, they may reduce the risk of seasonal human and influenza A(H5N1) virus co-infection and possible viral reassortment leading to a human-transmissible virus with pandemic potential.

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 Information:

• For more information about Avian Influenza, visit: Avian Influenza – What You Need to Know.

• For questions about wild birds in the NWT, contact the Canadian Wildlife Service at cwsnorth-scfnord@ec.gc.ca.

For media requests, please contact:

ECC_Communications@gov.nt.ca 

Environment and Climate Change

Government of the Northwest Territories