Seabird avian flu detected

Picture: NSRI Table Bay

Picture: NSRI Table Bay

Published Feb 20, 2018

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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”.

Winde said there is no benefit to be gained from trying to control the virus in other wild sea birds through culling or habitat destruction.

Affected birds show symptoms including twitching and head tremors and may have difficulty breathing.

Terns and other flying birds can lose their ability to sustain flight.

Avian influenza is a viral respiratory disease of birds that is primarily spread through direct contact between healthy and infected birds, or via indirect contact with contaminated equipment or other materials.

The virus is present in the faeces of infected birds and in discharges from their nostrils, mouth and eyes.

The H5N8 strain does not infect humans.

Winde has urged that sick seabirds be reported to the nearest sea bird rehabilitation centre. The public are advised not to touch these birds if you have pet birds at home or work in the poultry or ostrich industry.

Members of the public are urged to report abnormal numbers of dead wild birds to a local state veterinarian or a responsible conservation authority. 

"If possible, take a photo, record the location, species and number of dead birds. Sea bird rehabilitation centres can be contacted on:

Cape Town and surrounds: SANCCOB 0215576155

Overstrand and surrounds: African Penguin & Sea bird Sanctuary 0725987117

Mossel Bay and surrounds: SAPREC 0823643382

Plettenberg Bay and surrounds: Tenikwa 0824861515

Port Elizabeth and surrounds: SANCCOB 0415831830

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