Vaccination to contain the spread of avian flu is considered

The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development is investigating the feasibility of developing a vaccine to stop the spread and effects of avian flu.

MEANWHILE: Egg prices continue to skyrocket

The impact of avian influenza, often known as “avian flu” or “bird flu,” in South Africa was discussed during a meeting between retailers and Thoko Didiza, minister of agriculture, land reform, and rural development, on Monday.

ALSO READ: South Africa has over 50 confirmed cases of avian influenza

WHEN WAS THIS ADDRESSED?

This comes after meetings between government representatives and the sector that took place over the weekend and a meeting with the South African Poultry Association that was held last Friday.

Didiza informed the retailers at the meeting about the containment measures that had been implemented to stop the disease’s spread as well as potential short- and long-term solutions to manage similar outbreaks, such as immunizations.

ALSO READ: Avian influenza: Public urged not to touch sea birds after confirmed cases in Cape Town

“It was evident from Monday’s engagement that the main challenge is primarily on the egg production side, where there are supply constraints in some regions of the country. In response to this challenge, the Minister is focusing on measures to improve the availability of egg supply to consumers and simultaneously putting measures to contain the spread of the disease.

WHAT’S THE MINISTER DOING TO TACKLE THE AVIAN FLU ISSUE?

“Moreover, the Minister is embarking on the efficiency improvement in issuing import permits for egg products to ensure sufficient supplies for consumers. In addition, the Minister is looking at the possibility of vaccination and currently reviewing applications by various suppliers,” the department said in a statement.

ALSO READ: AVIAN FLU: DA calls on govt to assist farmers

On the broiler side, Didiza and Ebrahim Patel, Minister of Trade, Industry, and Competition, are examining several trade mechanisms that will ease the supply of chicken meat.

ALSO READ: WATCH: Farmers advised to stay vigilant towards avian flu [Video]