No new bird flu cases at Cape farms

NO new cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) have been confirmed at previously uninfected poultry farms in the province since October 31 last year, Western Cape Economic Opportunities Minister Alan Winde said yesterday.

Last month, though‚ there was a recurrence at a previously infected farm which was still under quarantine.

Winde urged poultry owners to remain vigilant and to maintain strict biosecurity measures.

“The halting of new infections in our poultry industry is positive news‚ but we must remain extremely cautious due to infections among our wild bird population,” he said.

“Restocking of poultry farms continues in Gauteng‚ and our vets are working with local farmers to make sure their houses are clean so they can start the restocking process.”

Poultry farms can be declared officially free of HPAI 42 days after the first effective disinfection.

Once the property is declared HPAI-free‚ the quarantine can be lifted. To date‚ quarantine has been lifted on one commercial broiler breeder farm.

As for wild birds‚ Winde said laboratory tests had confirmed the presence of the H5N8 virus in swift terns found in Durbanville‚ Seapoint‚ and between Bloubergstrand and Melkbosstrand‚ among others.

“Members of the public are urged to inform their local state vet or Cape Nature office if they discover groups of dead birds or sick birds.”