Avian flu forces Western Cape farmers to cull 120k birds
Approximately 120 000 birds have died or have been culled since avian influenza was detected at two commercial layer farms in the Paardeberg area in the Western Cape. The provincial Department of Agriculture is advising the public and farming sector to remain vigilant. ALSO READ: Avian flu detected in Western Cape, 120 000 birds culled RISK […]
Approximately 120 000 birds have died or have been culled since avian influenza was detected at two commercial layer farms in the Paardeberg area in the Western Cape. The provincial Department of Agriculture is advising the public and farming sector to remain vigilant.
ALSO READ: Avian flu detected in Western Cape, 120 000 birds culled
RISK OF AVIAN FLU SPREADING TO HUMANS IS LOW
The affected farms are egg-laying chicken farms in the Drakenstein and Swartland Local Municipalities. The first avian influenza outbreak was confirmed on Friday, 21 April, and the second on Tuesday, 25 April.
“The exact strain involved is still unknown and is being investigated,” said Western Cape Department of Agriculture spokesperson Daniel Johnson.
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The viral disease spreads through direct contact between healthy and infected birds or through contact with sullied equipment or other materials. Avian influenza is found in sick birds’ faeces and discharges from their nose, mouth and eyes.
“Highly pathogenicity avian influenza outbreaks have been occurring worldwide and were detected in poultry in other South African provinces earlier in 2023 and throughout 2022. However, the Western Cape has not seen the virus in commercial poultry since early last year,” said Johnson.
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NO VACCINE OR TREATMENT AVAILABLE
There is no vaccine or treatment for highly pathogenic avian influenza, and current practice in most of the world requires culling infected birds as soon as possible to limit the spread.
The risk of the disease jumping to humans remains low. However, experts advise the public to avoid contact with dead birds. Gloves, masks, and eye goggles should be worn when handling or slaughtering potentially infected poultry.
Poultry products from grocery stores remain safe for consumers, said the department.
This article was originally published by Storm Simpson.