Canadian teen hospitalized in critical condition with deadly bird flu

A Canadian teenager is currently in critical condition in the hospital with a case of H5N1 bird flu, as confirmed by health officials.

The Public Health Agency of Canada released a statement confirming that the teenager in British Columbia, who was hospitalized on Friday, tested positive for the deadly avian influenza.

The teenager, who remains unidentified, is currently in critical condition and is receiving treatment at the British Columbia Children’s Hospital in Vancouver, according to the press release.

The National Microbiology Lab in Canada confirmed the diagnosis after conducting genomic sequencing tests. The virus is linked to the avian influenza H5N1 viruses found in the ongoing poultry outbreak in British Columbia.

Health authorities are still unsure of how the teenager contracted the disease.

Dr. Bonnie Henry of the British Columbia Ministry of Health mentioned during a press conference that there is a possibility they may never determine the source of the virus. However, they are following several leads to investigate further.

Since October, at least two dozen Canadian poultry farms have reported cases of the virus.

Meanwhile, there is an outbreak of avian influenza in US cattle, increasing the risk of the virus crossing the species barrier and infecting humans. The CDC reported 46 cases of humans contracting avian influenza in the US in 2024, with most cases being mild.

Canadian health officials have stated that the risk to public health is low since the virus does not easily transmit between people.

Dr. Bonnie Henry mentioned at a news conference that approximately 36 individuals who came in contact with the infected teenager have tested negative for the virus.

The Canadian government continues its investigation, which includes contact tracing, testing, and providing preventative antiviral medication to prevent any potential cases.

Health officials advise individuals who have been exposed to sick or dead birds, or have visited a farm where avian flu was confirmed, to take extra precautions and seek medical attention if symptoms develop.