Avian flu detected in Western Cape, 120 000 birds culled

WESTERN CAPE – The provincial Agriculture MEC Ivan Meyer confirmed that avian flu had been detected at two poultry farms in the Western Cape. According to news reports, the flu strain is unknown at this stage. Approximately 120 000 birds have died since the outbreak was confirmed last week.

The infected birds were culled as quickly as possible – as is standard practice – as there is no vaccine or treatment for the avian flu. Meyer told the broadcaster the risk of humans being infected with the avian flu remains low.

Avian influenza or bird flu is a disease caused by a virus (small infectious agent) that occurs naturally among birds, and that sometimes infects pigs. The virus spreads easily, and poultry, like chicken, ducks and turkeys, if infected, can get very sick and can die rapidly. Sometimes this virus can also infect humans.