SAPA says that the farm is under quarantine and the exposed birds are being culled with help from the Department of Agriculture. The outbreak, at a farm on the East Rand of Johannesburg, is in the same location as the first outbreak. Testing suggests that that outbreak, which affected laying hens, was highly pathogenic H5N1 bird flu.
Poultry producers in South Africa remain on high alert in case the virus spreads. Existing biosecurity measures and import bans on South African poultry products are expected to remain in place.
The effects on the ongoing supply of broiler meat are minimal, and consumers are assured that broiler meat and eggs remain safe to eat provided proper cooking protocols are observed, with temperatures exceeding 60ºC achieved, a SAPA spokesperson said.
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