The avian influenza outbreak in South Africa poses a threat to local farmers who have been hesitant to have their birds vaccinated.
Professor Robert Bragg from the veterinary biotechnology in the microbiology and biochemistry department at the University of Free State said the commercial poultry industry which was, for most of the time, free from the strain of this virus, is under threat.
He said the bird monitoring programme in South Africa, which includes always looking for antibodies against the virus, was only possible for unvaccinated birds and this previously made the veterinary services reluctant to vaccinate.
“The only short-term option for control of AI [avian influenza] in the current situation is a good biosecurity,” said Bragg.
“It is essential that good biosecurity is in place on the poultry farms. Only high quality and registered disinfectants must be used for the biosecurity efforts.
“The ideal product would be one which is non-toxic to the birds and can be used to continually reduce the levels of viruses in the flock.
“Until the vaccination programme can take effect, the only control option is a full continual disinfection programme.”
He said the programme would include adding a registered disinfectant product in drinking water and regularly use a registered product to spray the birds.
The outbreak has resulted in a shortage of layers and broilers in the commercial poultry industry, placing an expensive tag on the available ones.
Agricultural production firm Grain Field Chickens in Reitz, Free State said the outbreak has caused a strain on the business.
However, it noted that it has managed to develop and implement mitigation measures to keep business afloat.
Engagement manager George Gemishuys said the business has collaborated with suppliers in these trying times.
“Implementation of the mitigation strategies negatively impacts our input costs while we are doing our outmost to continue to act in the best interests of our employees and clients.” said Gemishuys.
“Regrettably, the risk is substantial and is expected to endure for an extended period. However, we remain dedicated to exploring sustainable solutions to ensure continued high-quality supply to our customers.”
According to the South African Veterinary Association, at least more than 10-million layers and broilers have been affected by the avian influenza.
Grocery retailers have been limiting the number of eggs shoppers can buy due to an ongoing outbreak of avian flu in the country.
The outbreak of a high-pathogenic avian influenza, a bird flu which spreads rapidly in an infected flock, causes a high death rate.
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