Stricter control hopes to curb spread of avian flu in seabirds

The department of environmental affairs yesterday said it had decided to halt all research activities involving the handling of seabirds in an effort to manage the spread of avian influenza.

Spokesperson Zolile Nqayi said the highly pathogenic H5N8 avian influenza was the same strain reported in the poultry industry last year.

Nqayi said the department was implementing stringent biosecurity measures at the various rehabilitation centres, captive institutions and breeding localities.

This was an effort to curb the spread of the H5N8 strain affecting seabirds, such as swift terns and African penguins.

“The terns seem to be most affected but the strain does not affect people,” said Nqayi.

“But bird flu viruses can in rare cases infect humans. Thus, strict measures should be enforced when handling affected seabirds.”

Nqayi said wild birds were carriers of the disease.

In seabirds, the disease was spread through direct contact.

“The current outbreak adds pressure to already declining seabird populations.

“Processes are in place to ensure extended surveillance of infected seabirds.”

The department is urging the public to exercise caution when approaching seabirds.

“Sick seabirds should be reported to the nearest veterinarian, conservation authority or to permitted seabird rehabilitation centres,” said Nqayi. – ANA