Avian influenza outbreak hits SA.
Nevanji Munyaradzi Chiondegwa.
South African pultry industry has been hit by the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza(HPAI) and this could impact Zimbabwe negatively, a government Minister has said.
This was said during a post cabinet media briefing by Dr Jenfan Muswere the Minsiter of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services while presenting a report from Dr Anxious Jongwe-Masuku of Lands, Agriculture, Water, Fisheries and Rural Resettlement.
Dr Muswere said, “The nation is being informed that South Africa is currently experiencing outbreaks of two different strains of Highly Pathogenic Avian Inflenza (HPAI) H5N8 and H7N6 in seven of its nine provinces.”
To contain the impact, the Government through the Department of Veterinary Services, has instituted the following measures; activation of Rapid Response Teams; and
awareness campaigns to the poultry industry value chain players and the public on the urgent need to strengthen their bio-security measures.
In light of the outbreak, the poultry sector in Zimbabwe is strongly urged to implement certain precautionaru measures.
Dr Muswere said “The Poultry Sector is urged to institute the following measures; limit movement of people, feed and farm equipment from other poultry enterprises; and not to feed wild birds coming to the homestead or farm.”
To ensure proper guidance and support, farmers have also been urged to reach out to their nearest Veterinary Offices for guidance in implementing effective bio-securirt measures to safeguard their poultry farms.
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