Turkey Farmer’s Urgent Warning: Why You Should Avoid Dead Birds and Protect Your Poultry
Mike Bose, a city councillor from Surrey, faced a significant loss on his turkey farm due to avian flu last winter. He lost nearly 18,000 birds and is now urging residents to avoid touching or approaching dead birds. He requests that anyone who finds sick or dead birds immediately report them to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency by calling 1-866-431-BIRD (2473).
Bose emphasizes the importance of reporting such sightings to help track and manage the spread of avian flu. This disease is spreading widely and poses a major economic threat. He recalls that after a storm last November, wild birds congregated near his farm, which likely contributed to the infection of his flocks.
The financial impact on his farm has been severe, as he saw “a lot of zeroes” due to the loss. Additionally, concerns about avian flu have resurfaced recently, as a teenager was hospitalized in critical condition due to the H5N1 virus, marking the first known case in British Columbia.
How is the government responding to the avian flu crisis in Surrey?
Interview with Mike Bose: Addressing the Avian Flu Crisis in Surrey
NewsDirectory3.com Exclusive
In an exclusive interview, City Councillor Mike Bose shares his harrowing experience and insights regarding the avian flu crisis that has recently impacted Surrey.
Q: Councillor Bose, can you recount the loss you faced on your turkey farm last winter?
Mike Bose: Absolutely. Last winter was devastating for me as a farmer. I lost nearly 18,000 birds due to avian flu. Witnessing such a significant loss on my farm was heartbreaking—I saw “a lot of zeroes” on my financial reports, underscoring the severe economic impact this disease has on farmers like me.
Q: What steps are you urging residents to take in light of this issue?
Mike Bose: I’m urging residents to be vigilant. If anyone encounters sick or dead birds, it’s crucial they do not approach or touch them. Instead, they should immediately report these findings to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency by calling 1-866-431-BIRD (2473). Reporting helps track and manage the spread of avian flu effectively.
Q: What do you attribute the spread of avian flu on your farm to?
Mike Bose: After a storm last November, I noticed wild birds congregating near my farm. I believe this increased exposure contributed significantly to the infection of my flocks. The interaction between domestic and wild birds can be a pathway for viruses like H5N1.
Q: Could you touch on the recent hospitalization of a teenager due to the H5N1 strain? What does this signify?
Mike Bose: That incident is concerning, especially since it marks the first known case in British Columbia. It highlights the real public health threat that avian flu poses. We need to take these matters seriously—both for the welfare of wildlife and the health and safety of our community.
Q: What message do you want to convey to the public regarding avian flu?
Mike Bose: My main message is about awareness and responsibility. The avian flu is spreading widely, and we must work together to prevent its further spread. Proper reporting protocols for sick or dead birds are essential. The community’s vigilance can help protect both our local economy and public health.
Q: Thank you, Councillor Bose, for sharing your insights and emphasizing the importance of public awareness in this critical situation.
Mike Bose: Thank you for having me. Together, we can make a difference in managing this outbreak.
For more information on avian flu and how to report any sightings, please visit the Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s website.
For the health and safety of the community, it is crucial to follow proper reporting protocols regarding sick or dead birds.