The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), in collaboration with the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) and Health Canada, remains vigilant in monitoring dairy cattle for signs of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). This ongoing effort is an integral part of Canada’s One Health approach, which considers the interconnectedness of animal, human, and environmental health in disease management.

As of now, there have been no confirmed cases of HPAI in cattle in Canada. However, continuous testing plays a crucial role in the country’s strategy to detect the virus early and safeguard both animal and public health.

Milk testing results for retail and raw milk have been promising. Since September 2024, CFIA labs have analyzed 1,211 samples of pasteurized retail milk from stores nationwide, all of which tested negative for HPAI. The breakdown of results by region includes the Atlantic provinces with 302 samples – all negative, Ontario with 307 samples – all negative, Quebec with 302 samples – all negative, and the Western provinces with 300 samples – all negative.

In addition, raw (unpasteurized) milk samples collected from milk trucks arriving at processing plants have also been tested. As of April 2, 2025, 2,954 samples from around 1,500 dairy farms nationwide have tested negative for HPAI. The results by region show that the Atlantic provinces had 217 negative samples, Ontario had 786 negative samples, Quebec had 1,058 negative samples, and the Western provinces had 893 negative samples. These tests are part of a proactive surveillance program to monitor the national herd and detect any potential HPAI infections early.

A study conducted in May and June 2024 by CFIA laboratories confirmed that the pasteurization process effectively neutralizes HPAI in milk. This finding aligns with international research and reinforces the safety of Canada’s milk supply for consumers. It is mandatory by law for all milk sold in Canada to undergo pasteurization, a process that eliminates harmful viruses and bacteria, including HPAI.

HPAI is classified as a reportable disease in Canada, necessitating the reporting of all suspected cases in animals to the CFIA. Non-CFIA laboratories involved in testing or research involving HPAI samples must adhere to stringent biosafety and biocontainment protocols. These laboratories are also obligated to inform the CFIA if they detect any fragments or antibodies of the virus in animal samples, including milk.

For more information on HPAI and food safety in Canada, individuals can visit the Health Canada website.

Overall, the collaborative efforts of CFIA, PHAC, and Health Canada, along with stringent testing and monitoring protocols, demonstrate Canada’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of its dairy industry and protecting the health of both animals and consumers.