The Western Cape Department of Agriculture has confirmed the detection of avian influenza, commonly referred to as bird flu, in the province.
This comes amid recent outbreaks of the virus in chickens in the North West and Mpumalanga provinces. In the Western Cape, a poultry-related case was identified in early July, involving farmed ducks near Paarl.
While the specific strain and the full extent of the outbreak are still being assessed, provincial authorities have implemented immediate containment measures to curb the spread of the virus.
The department’s veterinary services are conducting surveillance and working closely with industry stakeholders to ensure rapid response and biosecurity enforcement.
Although bird flu poses minimal risk to humans under typical circumstances, the public has been urged to exercise caution. Officials have urged residents to avoid contact with sick or dead birds and to report any unusual bird deaths to local veterinary offices.
Western Cape Agriculture MEC Ivan Meyer has called for calm, assuring consumers that poultry products currently available on the market remain safe for consumption.
“Infected birds are culled at the source, and strict biosecurity protocols are in place to protect the food supply chain,” said Meyer.
Further updates will be issued as investigations and testing continue.
VOC News
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