NEWS / 20
FEBRUARY 2018, 10:32AM / LISA ISAACS
While there have been no new
avian flu infections in the commercial poultry sector, the disease has been
detected in other seabird species.
Economic Opportunities MEC Alan
Winde yesterday confirmed that further incidents of the highly pathogenic H5N8
avian flu had been found in seabird populations in the province.
Seven cases of infected African
penguins from six different sites across the provincial coastline were
detected.
“Due to the status of African
penguins as endangered, a decision to treat infected birds has been taken.
“Treatment protocols are similar
to those for flu in humans - appropriate nutrition, hydration, vitamins, and
the administration of anti-inflammatory drugs or antibiotics for any secondary
infections,” Winde said.
Of the seven cases, one has
survived.
No new cases were reported in the
commercial poultry sector since October.
“The management authorities of
all major sea bird colonies around the coastline are monitoring their zones
closely.
"All necessary precautionary
protocols to contain the spread of the disease have been implemented and
extended surveillance and collaboration across sectors is assisting with
further epidemiological evaluations,” Winde said.
CapeNature chief executive
Razeena Omar said: “CapeNature is working closely with the state vet and has
put procedures in place to monitor the virus and restrict the spread by humans
between infected and non-infected areas”.
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