South Africa is on the verge of another avian influenza (AI) outbreak, with concerns raised about the potential consequences for both the poultry industry and wild bird populations.
NSPCA’s Plea for Vaccination and Biosecurity Measures
The National Council of Societies for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA) has urged the government to take action, but there has been no response from Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen.
On 25 November 2024, the NSPCA urged Agriculture Minister Steenhuisen to implement vaccination programmes and remove barriers to accessible preventative measures.
However, industry stakeholders cite bureaucracy, strict biosecurity protocols, and high monitoring costs as obstacles.
Senior Inspector Nazareth Appalsamy, Manager of the NSPCA’s Farm Animal Protection Unit, described the issue as both an animal welfare concern and an economic one.
He warned that potential losses could reach millions of rands.
The Poultry Industry’s Struggle
The poultry industry is experiencing difficulties in managing AI due to strict biosecurity regulations and the financial burden of compliance.
While there is support for humane culling and preventative measures, limited government support has left some farmers struggling.
The NSPCA recently met with the South African Poultry Association (SAPA) to discuss concerns over the effectiveness of current disease control strategies.
According to a report by Reuters, SAPA has called on the government to subsidise vaccinations and compensate farmers for losses incurred during previous outbreaks.
The association warns that without intervention, another crisis could impact the poultry sector and public health.
Rising Risk with Migratory Birds
As migratory birds return to South Africa, the risk of a new AI outbreak is expected to rise.
These birds, arriving at different times, pose a threat to both poultry farms and wild bird populations.
The NSPCA has warned that without proactive measures, the disease could spread rapidly, with significant consequences.
According to IOL, experts have expressed concerns about the potential for the avian flu virus to mutate and infect humans if biosecurity measures are not adequately enforced.
The South African government has faced scrutiny over its handling of biosecurity protocols.
Warnings have been issued that the ongoing AI outbreak could pose risks of human transmission.
A Call for Immediate Action
The NSPCA has urged the Department of Agriculture to prioritise animal welfare and review policies that may be limiting effective vaccination and biosecurity measures.
“The Department of Agriculture is responsible for enforcing the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962, and yet animal welfare is not being prioritised in decision-making,” the NSPCA stated.
With concerns mounting over a potential AI outbreak, stakeholders are urging the government to take immediate action to mitigate risks.
They emphasise the need for prompt intervention to prevent further disruptions to the poultry industry and the broader ecosystem.
What measures should the government take to prevent avian influenza and protect South Africa’s poultry industry?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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