No new outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza
Trade restrictions imposed by neighbouring countries have relaxed somewhat or remained the same.
Although no new outbreaks of avian influenza have been reported since the previously confirmed cases – on a farm on the East Rand and in the North West – South Africa’s poultry and ostrich industries remain under national high alert. Strict biosecurity measures are in place.
This is according to Colin Steenhuisen, interim GM of the Egg Organisation of the SA Poultry Association (Sapa).
The initial outbreak of avian influenza H5 on a layer farm on the East Rand was identified as HPAI H5N1.
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“An appeal is also made to hobbyist keepers of any birds, including poultry, to remain vigilant and report any signs of illness in their birds to their veterinarian.
“Avian influenza is an airborne virus and is not restricted to infection only by contact,” said Steenhuisen.
Trade restrictions imposed by neighbouring countries have relaxed somewhat or remained the same, with Botswana reducing its national ban to the affected farms only, Namibia restricting imports from the one affected compartment on the East Rand and Lesotho restricting imports from Gauteng.
Swaziland has restricted the affected compartment and Mozambique has no official restrictions in place.
“Sapa is grateful that, while the financial impact on the farms affected is significant and has had a severe negative effect on the farmers, avian influenza incidents have not increased this past week,” said Steenhuisen.
“The support of DALRRD and all veterinary staff involved have been invaluable.”
He concluded that supplies of both poultry meat and eggs remain fully stocked, with less than one per cent of the bird stocks producing poultry meat and eggs affected by avian influenza to date.
Consumers are advised that poultry meat and eggs remain safe to eat, and should be cooked properly according to acceptable cooking protocols, achieving temperatures above 60°C.
No products from the infected farms were placed in the market.
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