WESTERN CAPE NEWS - The necessary biosecurity measures for the prevention of avian influenza contamination are in place at local poultry producers in the George area, according to a prominent supplier of eggs in George.
This comes after the Western Cape Department of Agriculture announced that it is investigating possible incidences of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), type H5N8, on two ostrich farms in the Heidelberg area.
The local producer, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed that all producers in the George area do blood tests on their chickens every three months for various diseases, but more regular testing is carried out for avian influenza.
Lindy Gordon-Brown, owner of the free range poultry farm The Red Barn, said they are doing everything in their power to prevent contamination on their farm.
"Being a free range farm, we cannot enclose our chickens as they become stressed. We scare away wild birds with blank shots, scare crows and patrols. We are also trying to build up the immunity of our chickens with herbs and vitamins. Our birds do have a somewhat stronger immune system than those in batteries. We also monitor all activity on the farm and sterilise trucks and vehicles and adhere to strict hygienic routines. Our production area is isolated from our customers who are not allowed to walk where the chickens are. Unfortunately, we are very vulnerable, so we are always praying."
Local state veterinarian Dr Edwin Dyason said he is not aware of any gaps in the biosecurity at local producers. "It (AI) can come any day and producers are themselves responsible to protect their own operations. We are in war time and I am sure that producers realise that they cannot afford to be negligent."
He gave the assurance that there is no risk for human contamination. "The H5N8 strain has been through the US and Europe last year and no human contamination has been recorded. However, chickens die very fast when they contract the virus."
The Agriculture Department said that investigations on the Heidelberg farms are in progress and both farms have been placed under quarantine. Petro van Rhyn, head of communication, confirmed that both ostrich and chicken meat on sale in retail outlets are safe for human consumption. "The H5N8 strain of the virus has so far shown no sign of being infectious to people. Constant monitoring of exposed people in South Africa has supported this."
The disease is believed to be transmitted by wild migratory birds. The public is urged to report sick or dead birds - both wild birds and poultry - to local authorities.
For more information, contact Petro van Rhyn on 071 231 7576.
ARTICLE: ALIDA DE BEER, GEORGE HERALD JOURNALIST
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