The Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF), the Western Cape Department of Agriculture and the Ostrich Business Chamber have conducted intensive veterinary investigations over the past weeks on ostrich farms in the Southern Cape which showed sero-conversion of avian influenza.

The laboratory isolated a highly pathogenic avian influenza, H5N2, by detecting the presence of genetic material for the virus over the weekend.

This incident has been reported to the EU as our major trading partner and the OIE.  Unfortunately, this means that the export of ostrich meat, in accordance with the agreement with the EU, has been suspended until the situation can be resolved.

The outbreak is being handled in partnership with the Western Cape veterinary authorities and the industry to ensure public health, food security and poultry health.

Movement of all ratites (ostrich family) is suspended with immediate effect unless covered by a Red Cross permit.

The public is hereby requested not to panic as the department is effectively dealing with the outbreak. Relevant industry members and the poultry industry in general are requested to cooperate with departmental officials in dealing with the disease outbreak.

For further information, contact:

For more information contact
Mr Steve Galane
Acting Chief Director: Stakeholder Relations and Communication
Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries
Tel: +27 12 319 7960
Fax: +27 12 319 6943
Cell: +27 83 635 7346
E-mail: DAIS@daff.gov.za
Website: www.DAFF.gov.za

The technical spokesperson on avian influenza AI is Dr Botlhe Modisane
Cell: 082 377 0865