Turkeys and H1N1

The pandemic H1N1 flu virus causes respiratory illness in people that is similar to regular seasonal influenza viruses. Turkeys are also vulnerable to the H1N1 virus. However, there is no evidence that turkeys are contributing to the spread of the pandemic H1N1 flu virus in the human population.

In the limited cases where H1N1 has been detected in turkey flocks, it has been amongst breeder flocks where the only sign of infection was a drop in egg production. The birds themselves experienced no signs or symptoms of the flu virus.

Turkey farmers follow strict biosecurity guidelines as outlined in Turkey Farmers of Canada's On-Farm Food Safety and Flock Care Programs. A turkey farmer suspecting the presence of any influenza virus in their flock should immediately notify a veterinarian.

The Turkey Farmers of Canada (TFC) would like to alert our farmers that several provincial medical officers have recommended that Canadian agricultural workers, particularly those that are in contact with livestock, be vaccinated with the H1N1 vaccine.

TFC recommends that our turkey farmers consult with their local medical authorities or own medical doctors to discuss the H1N1 vaccine so they can make an informed decision.