An outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) has affected five commercial chicken farms in the Western Cape.
According to Reggie Ngcobo, the spokesperson for the Department of Agriculture, strict measures have been implemented by quarantining the affected farms. Consequently, the movement of animals and eggs from these locations has been strictly prohibited.
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Ngcobo added that the department aims to provide reassurance to consumers regarding the safety of consuming commercial poultry meat and eggs. He also urged individuals to exercise caution during food preparation to prevent any potential risks associated with other food-borne pathogens.
‘Birds infected with HPAI get sick fairly quickly and die. Generally, the first sign of sick animals, including birds, is a drop in production, meaning that sick birds will produce very few (if any) eggs. This, together with the added mitigation of placing farms under quarantine, means no eggs from infected properties will make their way to shelves,’ he said.
Ngcobo stressed the department’s strong recommendation for poultry farmers, regardless of whether they rear birds for commercial or non-commercial purposes, to strictly adhere to biosecurity protocols in order to prevent HPAI.
‘We also urge farmers and individuals to report any suspected outbreak to the responsible private or state veterinarian,’ he said.
As previously covered by News24, Ivan Meyer, the Agriculture MEC of the Western Cape, disclosed that a substantial allocation of over R60 million has been designated towards the prevention and management of animal diseases as an integral component of the agricultural department’s budget for the fiscal year 2023/24.
According to Meyer, at least 120 000 birds have died or been euthanised since the outbreak was first detected in April in the Swartland area.
The Western Cape Veterinary Services said, ‘Although the risk of avian influenza being transmitted to humans remains low, experts advise that members of the public should avoid touching dead birds. In addition, we advise particular caution when handling or slaughtering potentially infected poultry; gloves, a mask and eye protection should be worn.’
Poultry products from grocery stores are safe for consumption.
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