AGRICULTURAL NEWS - Despite efforts by government and the commercial poultry and ostrich industries to control the disease, there were now 24 confirmed outbreaks of the H5N8 strain of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) since late June 2017.
A Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) statement said that there had been 10 outbreaks in commercial poultry, three in commercial ostriches, five in wild birds, three in hobby aviaries, and three in backyard poultry flocks.
“All affected properties have been placed under quarantine and disease control measures have commenced. The continued cooperation of the public and the poultry industry in the timeous reporting of sick and dying birds to government veterinary services is vital for the effectiveness of disease control measures instituted,” said DAFF spokesperson, Bomikazi Molapo.
