Dr. Abongile Balarane, the General Manager of Sapa, reassured the public, stating that there have been no reported cases of the flu in humans as of now. He emphasized that South Africa has not witnessed any instances of the flu transferring from chickens to humans. Despite this, the situation remains concerning, with the current highly pathogenic avian influenza being the most severe since its initial detection in 2017.
However the South African Poultry Association (Sapa), in collaboration with the Agriculture Department, is actively exploring the possibility of vaccinating chickens to combat the avian flu outbreak. The announcement comes amid concerns of an impending shortage of both chicken and eggs, anticipated to persist until the month’s end due to the flu’s impact.
The outbreak, first identified in the Western Cape, has now spread nationwide. A new strain of H7N6, distinct from the common H5N1 bird flu, was identified around Gauteng and Mpumalanga in June, further complicating the situation. The impact has been staggering, leading to the culling of over five million layer chickens and affecting 8.7 million layers, thus disrupting the egg supply chain.
Minister of Agriculture, Thoko Didiza, held virtual meetings with industry stakeholders to discuss government interventions aimed at curbing the avian flu’s spread. One proposed measure is efficient issuance of import permits for egg products to ensure adequate supplies. Vaccination is also under consideration, with the minister reviewing applications from vaccine suppliers.
Additionally, South African egg producers are facing unprecedented challenges. The 18.5% increase in Eskom tariffs, effective from April 1, 2023, has escalated production costs significantly. The variable costs for egg production, covering electricity, fuels, and feed, have surged from 70% to approximately 80%. Combined with Eskom’s erratic electricity supply causing frequent blackouts, many producers, especially small-scale ones, and some packing stations have exited the industry. SAPA statistics indicate a significant decline in primary egg production, with a possible 35% reduction in day-old pullets hatched and an 11% decrease in the replacement of point-of-lay hens (PoL).
“Although the risk of avian influenza to humans remains low, it is advised that members of the public avoid touching dead birds. We advise particular caution when handling or slaughtering potentially infected poultry – gloves, a mask and eye protection should be worn.”
The department reiterated that poultry products were safe for consumption.
Department of Agriculture Head of Communication Mary James said increased mortality is the most common sign to look out for.
“If they do not die suddenly, affected chickens may show difficulty breathing, discoloration of the skin of the face and legs, twisted necks, loss of appetite, diarrhea and a drop in egg production.”
James said several poultry farms were affected by H5 avian influenza in April and May this year, but there have been no new outbreaks since June.
The South African Poultry Association (SAPA) said unfortunately, due to the highly contagious nature of the H7 virus, even the most stringent biosecurity protocols are overcome by the virus.
“Unfortunately, the market will experience shortages in the next few months – an issue every poultry producer is working hard to minimize – but during such shortages the basic economics of supply and demand may see some price hikes here and there.”
Despite these challenges, the resilient South African egg producers continue to supply the nation with its beloved source of animal protein during these trying times.
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