Dr. Bonnie Henry, Health Officer for the Province of British Columbia has urged universal vaccination for all personnel coming into contact with commercial poultry.  She echoes the concern of virologists and veterinarians that there is a risk of a possible exchange of genetic material between human and avian viruses in the event that an infected worker interacts with a flock exposed to avian influenza.

Dr. Henry noted that while the incidence rate of avian influenza in humans appears to be small, risks could be relatively high for those in close contact with birds including farm workers and those engaged in depopulation and disposal of flocks infected with HPAI.

EGG-NEWS has consistently advocated seasonal influenza vaccination for all poultry personnel.  This expedient will reduce absenteeism, limit complication as a result of human influenza among the elderly and those with predisposing conditions and avert possible recombinant events.