Issued: Tuesday, February 24, 2026 | 11:30 a.m. | Windsor and Essex County
The following statement can be attributed to the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU):
The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU) has worked closely with partners to support the response to avian influenza detected at a local poultry farm late last week. Our primary focus is protecting the health of our community by preventing any transmission of the virus to humans and ensuring the broader safety of residents across the region.
The WECHU is working closely with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, provincial and federal health partners, the farm operator, and staff who may have had close contact with infected animals. 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.
At this time, the risk to the general public remains low. The WECHU continues to provide direct support to any individuals who may have been exposed and is conducting enhanced surveillance as an added precaution.
“Human infections with avian influenza are rare and typically only occur through close contact with infected animals,” said Dr. Mehdi Aloosh, Medical Officer of Health. “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.”
For more information about avian influenza, please visit wechu.org.