24 August 2006
The Department of Agriculture wants to assure the public that there is no
outbreak of the deadly avian influenza (H5N1) in the country.
One farm near Rustenburg in the North West Province and one farm in the
Gauteng Province have been placed under quarantine to allow the Department of
Agriculture to complete an investigation into the illegal importation of water
bird eggs into the country. The importer failed to obtain a permit from the
Department of Agriculture for such an importation.
South Africa is determined to maintain its avian influenza free status and
does not allow the importation of any live birds, poultry or poultry products
from any country that has not been free for at least the past three months.
Smuggling of live birds, eggs or poultry products pose a serious danger to the
poultry and ostrich industries in this country. Human health could also be at
risk.
It should be noted that chicken and ostrich products on supermarket shelves
in South Africa remain safe for human consumption.
For further information contact:
Steve Galane
Tel: (012) 319 7312
Cell: 083 635 7346
E-mail: smais@nda.agric.za
Issued by: Department of Agriculture and Land Affairs
24 August 2006
