ostrich meat
1 November 2006
The European Union informed South Africa that it accepts the country's
status as free from Highly Pathogenic Notifiable Avian Influenza (HPNAI). The
export of fresh ostrich meat can therefore resume as from (today) 1 November
2006, according to the new ostrich protocol. This protocol allows for
compartmentalisation of the ostrich industry and involves testing within 28
days prior to slaughter, with negative results.
The decision by the EU is the result of the successful eradication of the
active outbreak of H5N2 in ostriches in the Southern Cape in July 2006. No
further isolations or identification of the highly pathogenic virus could be
made.
Extensive surveillance is continuing throughout the country in all
commercial ostriches, commercial and non-commercial chickens. Chickens have
remained negative for the H5N2 virus, at all times.
This breakthrough in negotiations with the EU is a result of continuous and
transparent communication between South African and EU officials.
The Department of Agriculture and the Directorate of Animal Health greatly
appreciates the collaboration, assistance and effort of the Ostrich Business
Chamber and the Western Cape Veterinary Services in this matter.
Enquiries:
Steve Galane
Tel: (012) 319 7312
Cell: 083 635 7346
E-mail: dais@nda.agric.za
Issued by: Department of Agriculture
1 November 2006
Source: Department of Agriculture (www.nda.agric.za)
