Abstract
  • On February 19, 2025, the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) released the National Advisory Committee on Immunization's (NACI) Preliminary guidance on human vaccination against avian influenza in a non-pandemic context as of December 2024. This guidance is based on current evidence and NACI expert opinion.
  • As of February 14, 2025, 68 human cases of avian influenza A(H5N1) were reported in the US since the start of 2024, primarily among dairy and poultry workers, while Canada reported one human case. Of these human cases, a small number have been severe, including the one case in Canada, and one death has been reported in North America (Louisiana, US). Most human cases can be traced to animal exposures, although some have had an unknown source of exposure.
  • The number of human cases of avian influenza A(H5N1) in North America is increasing, primarily among poultry and dairy farm workers. Some Canadians may face increased risk of exposure to H5N1 viruses due to occupational hazards (e.g., poultry and dairy farm workers, laboratory workers); however, the risk to most Canadians remains low at this time.
  • This NACI guidance offers a preliminary framework to advise Canadian provinces and territories (PTs) on whether to use human vaccines against avian influenza (HVAI) in a non-pandemic context, centered on the objective to prevent human infection with avian influenza A(H5N1) viruses. Preventing transmission from animals to humans will help to prevent severe disease in humans and could also help limit opportunities for viral adaptations that could facilitate human-to-human transmission.
  • In the event that PTs determine it is necessary to start offering HVAI, NACI has identified key populations to consider prioritizing for vaccination including laboratory workers handling live avian influenza A (H5N1) virus and people with ongoing contact with known infected animals or their environments. NACI has also provided product-specific advice to advise PTs on recommended use of HVAI should it be needed (e.g., recommended schedule, guidance on concurrent administration).
  • Recommendation
  • Americas
  • Canada