SANCCOB has been following an outbreak of Avian Flu along the Western Cape Coastlines, and they have alerted the public in case they find any sick birds.
Western Cape, South Africa (19 October 2021) – An Avian Flu outbreak has been reported by SANCCOB (Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds). Sadly, the Avian Flu is hitting birds along the coastline, and it is likely some people may encounter the birds. They have asked the public to be aware and shared tips on what to do.
The sick birds are a risk to others, and it is vital that if a sickly bird is found, that members of the public do not transport it anywhere. The SANCCOB team advise that one instead calls the nearest conservation centre or state vet.
“Please do not attempt to assist or transport any sick birds, even to take them to rehabilitation centres and veterinarians. Signs of the disease vary from tame behaviour or weakness to muscle twitches and seizures. Be vigilant and report unusual mortalities in any birds to your local conservation authority or state veterinarian.”
The Avian Flu is predominantly affecting the endangered Cape Cormorant population, a population that only a few months was rattled by a mass abandonment on Robben Island.
“The H5N1 strain of HPAI virus was detected in wild birds in the Western Cape in May 2021, mainly affecting gulls. The first Cape cormorants were only diagnosed with this disease in mid-September and cases have increased very rapidly over the last week. The colonies that have been affected the worst are those on Dyer Island and near Velddrif. Careful surveillance is being done wherever Cape cormorants congregate. Mitigation measures in progress include the safe removal of carcasses and sick birds. Treating affected birds is futile and poses a serious risk of disease spread. Therefore, sick birds are euthanized.”
The flu strain is a very low health risk to humans, but people can carry the virus on their hands and clothes. Therefore, do not handle suspected cases if you will have contact with other birds.
If you come across any sick birds, you can find a selection of Veterinary Services here.
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