Cases of avian flu have now also been detected in Worcester, located in the Western Cape. This comes after the shocking discovery of the highly pathogenic bird flu break-out in both Gauteng and North West.
Avian influenza is a viral respiratory disease that affects birds and is spread by direct contact between healthy and infected birds, or through indirect contact with contaminated equipment or other materials.
The virus is present in the faeces of infected birds and discharges from their noses, mouth and eyes. Domestic birds are at risk of being infected through through faecal contamination of the environment from wild birds or by indirect contact with infected poultry on other premises.
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“There is currently no vaccine or treatment for highly pathogenic avian influenza,” says the Western Cape minister of agriculture, Dr Ivan Meyer.
“Current practice in most regions of the world requires the culling of infected birds.”
The minister assures people that the affected farm is under quarantine, “and the process of humanely culling the affected chickens is underway.”
Meyer adds that the Western Cape government urges the participation of the public and the agricultural sector in preventing the spread of this disease.
It is essential to report sick or dead birds – both wild birds and poultry to the chief state veterinarian, Dr Lesley van Helden on 021 808 5017 or via email at Lesleyvh@elsenburg.com.
Take these biosecurity measures
Farmers and poultry producers should be vigilant in their biosecurity measures to prevent potential virus introduction from wild birds or their faeces.
- Farmers should also restrict access to their properties as far as possible.
- It is crucial to keep poultry and other animals away from wild birds and their body fluids through screens, fencing or nets.
- Avoid introducing the virus through contaminated clothes, footwear, vehicles, or equipment used in waterfowl hunting.
- Upon entering or exiting properties, disinfect vehicles.
- Do not allow any person who had contact with poultry in the last 48 hours onto your property.
- Use of footbaths upon entry and exit to the poultry house to disinfect footwear.
“We do advise caution when handling or slaughtering potentially infected poultry. Poultry workers, abattoir workers and those who dress their poultry should only handle dead bird carcasses with gloves or disinfect their hands after handling carcasses,” Meyer adds.
Poultry products from grocery stores are still safe for consumption.
Click here for more information on animal health and disease control.
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