Eight skunks found dead in Vancouver and Richmond, British Columbia, have tested positive for avian flu, according to the B.C. government. The skunks were found in residential areas in both cities and were taken to B.C.'s Animal Health Centre over concerns they may have been deliberately poisoned. The strain of avian influenza detected in the skunks is the same as the one associated with the outbreak that began in April 2022. This is the first time skunks have tested positive for the virus in Canada. B.C.'s Ministry of Agriculture is urging people to take precautions to protect themselves and their pets from the virus. The ministry is advising people to avoid contact with wild birds, to avoid touching dead animals, and to wash their hands after coming into contact with animals. The ministry is also stressing the importance of proper disposal of dead animals, as well as avoiding contact with sick or dead birds. The risk of avian flu to humans is low, but the virus has the potential to cause serious illness and even death. The World Health Organization is monitoring the situation closely and is recommending that people take the necessary precautions to protect themselves and their families.