Photo by [Poultry World]
South Africa – The poultry industry in South Africa has been severely affected by the outbreak of avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu. To date, the virus has claimed the lives of hundreds of thousands of chickens, with millions more being intentionally culled or killed by poultry farms and producers.
Despite the virus’s highly contagious and deadly nature among poultry, Dr Angelique Coetzeen, the Chair of the Health Committee within the South African United Business Confederation, assures that human infections are exceptionally rare.
Nevertheless, in the unlikely event of human infection, she advises individuals to manage it like a typical flu, with rest and appropriate medication. Currently, the provinces most heavily impacted by the H5 and H7 strains of the virus are Gauteng, Kwazulu Natal, and Western Cape.
“If you are a person with a weak immune system and you’re not feeling well, go to your doctor for a check-up and make sure there’s no secondary infection … But rest. With any viral infection, whether it’s avian flu or whatever type of infection, you have to stay home and give your body time to rest.”
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What Are the Measures to Mitigate Its Spread?
Dr. Coetzee states, the strain of avian influenza currently affecting poultry farms in South Africa is unique to the region and is highly contagious. As a result, it has already significantly impacted poultry farms, producers, and independent farmers across the country.
“[The effects of the virus] is across the board in South Africa.”
Although no vaccines are currently available for this specific viral strain in South Africa, reports suggest that the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development is expediting efforts to procure it.
In the interim, poultry farmers are believed to be implementing various restrictions and regulations to contain the spread of the virus, which has already inflicted substantial damage on the poultry industry and the nation.
“Because there are no vaccines, they restrict movements on the farms. They do not allow anyone from outside. There are strict measures regarding hand washing, wearing masks and protective clothing. You cannot afford to spread the virus from one farm to another.”
Given the seriousness of the outbreak, many poultry farmers and producers have raised concerns about potential shortages and price increases for eggs and poultry meat from now till the end of the year. These concerns, in turn, could adversely affect South Africans who rely on the affordability of chicken products.
“We are going to have a shortage of eggs and chicken themselves, and in South Africa, chicken is a food most people depend on.”
