SA launches a mass vaccination programme against avian influenza

THE South African Poultry Association (SAPA) and agriculture associations have welcomed the department of Agriculture's decision to roll out the first-ever mass vaccination of poultry in the country in order to protect the local flock from avian influenza.

- YOGASHEN PILLAY

SAPA also confirmed that despite concerns about a salmonella outbreak in the United States, eggs in South Africa remain safe to consume.

Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen last week said that their vaccination team, comprised of poultry specialist vets from the University of Pretoria, along with the Agricultural Research Council, has received a list of farms to be vaccinated from the poultry industry and is prioritising high-risk areas and commercial flocks to contain the virus and prevent further culling.

"We have secured vaccine supply, ensured cold chain capacity, and are building in traceability and reporting mechanisms as part of a wider preparedness strategy."

In a statement, SAPA said that they were pleased that Deputy Director-General for Agricultural Production, Biosecurity, and Natural Resources Management, Dipepeneneng Serage, confirmed at the AVI Africa conference that the government will proceed with the vaccination strategy against Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI).

Serage highlighted the department's commitment to ensuring that farming can continue safely and sustainably.

"My job is to bring science and legislation together and allow farmers to farm without risking anyone's health, while positioning South Africa as a net exporter of food."