GEORGE NEWS - Avian influenza (AI), that has had devastating effects in parts of the Western Cape, has not affected producers in the Garden Route, according to local state veterinarian Dr Edwin Dyason.
In the Oudtshoorn area, over 20 farms around an infected Ostrich farm have been quarantined.
The department of agriculture, forestry and fisheries (Daff) said last week that the number of confirmed cases of AI in the Western Cape has risen to 50.
Since the regional outbreak was first confirmed in the province in August, 2,5 million chickens and ducks have been culled.
Minister of Economic Opportunities Alan Winde said the disease is spreading rapidly despite increased control measures.
There were national news reports last week of empty shelves at some supermarket chain stores, but in the Garden Route supplies seem to be unaffected.
Julian Novak of Woolworths Food said they have full availability.
They source eggs and fresh and frozen poultry from South African suppliers that have strict biosecurity measures in place.
"Under veterinary advice, our farmers have to keep our hens and poultry indoors temporarily.
"We remain committed to our local free range farmers, and birds will be allowed to return outdoors as soon as it is safe to do so."
A large local egg supplier, who prefer not to be named, said although they are not affected at the moment, availability of eggs will be affected in future because of shortages elsewhere, and prices will go up.
"We are still fine as we have our own farm and are able to keep on supplying our client base."
Pick n Pay spokesman Tamra Veley said they are concerned about the devasting impact of AI.
"We are working closely with our suppliers nationwide to keep our shelves stocked. We are strongly supportive of our loyal suppliers and urge government to give the industry all the support they need."
Winde said some farmers have put additional measures in place to curb the spread of AI.
"Many farmers have been proactive, testing flocks for early detection and culling them quickly when they test positive. Some of the farmers have also placed lime around their properties to prevent the virus from spreading."
He said Daff and the Western Cape Government are working at full pace to find solutions and a joint operations centre (JOC) has been convened.
The department is still considering the industry's application for vaccination.
"They are also finalising discussions on possible financial support. Some farmers are faced with the possibility of closure.
"We know the impact on food security is also likely to be significant."
ARTICLE: ALIDA DE BEER, GEORGE HERALD JOURNALIST
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