Residents in the Western Cape have been urged to stay alert following an outbreak of avian influenza also referred to "bird flu".
Recent outbreaks have been confirmed in chickens in North
West and Mpumalanga provinces, with one poultry outbreak in the Western Cape -
detected in farmed ducks near Paarl in early July.
According to the Western Cape Agricultural Department, the
affected ducks and associated chickens were humanely culled voluntarily to
prevent further spread.
In addition, bird flu has been responsible for mortalities
in Great White Pelicans near Malmesbury and Hartlaub’s Gulls in the Cape Town
area. The department said these are the first wild bird cases reported in the
Western Cape since April last year and the first mass mortalities since 2022.
SUPPLIED: Great White Pelicans were found dead near Malmesbury and diagnosed with high pathogenicity avian influenza. (Photo credit: M Vrey)Avian influenza is a viral disease that primarily affects birds. Infected wild birds may appear unusually tame, lose their fear of humans, or exhibit neurological signs such as twitching or seizures. The virus is present in the droppings and bodily fluids of infected birds and spreads via direct contact between birds or through contaminated materials.
Overseas, some mammals and a small number of humans have
contracted the virus after close contact with infected birds.
‘’However, there is currently no evidence of human-to-human
transmission. While the risk of human infection is low, contact with sick and dead
birds should be avoided. Do not touch or transport sick or dead wild birds
without appropriate protective clothing and rather report to the responsible
local authority,’’ cautioned the department.
Hartlaub’s Gulls have been found dead in the Cape Town area and have tested positive for high pathogenicity avian influenza. (Photo credit: SANCCOB)Departmental spokesperson, Mary James, says however there is no need to be alarmed and that poultry products from grocery stores are safe for consumption.
‘’ Farmers and poultry producers should apply
strict biosecurity measures in order to prevent potential virus introduction
from infected birds and properties; Access to farms should be restricted as far
as possible: Do not allow any people who have had contact with poultry in the
last 48 hours onto your property; It is important to keep poultry away from
wild birds and their body fluids and faeces, through screens, fencing or nets; Avoid
the introduction of the virus to poultry premises through contaminated clothes,
footwear, vehicles or other equipment; Vehicles entering properties should be
disinfected upon entering and exiting; Disinfect footwear upon entry and exit
to the poultry house.’’
‘’Together, through vigilance and cooperation, we can help
prevent the further spread of avian influenza and protect our birds, our poultry
industry and communities,’’ added James.
Done By: Mitchum George
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