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Bird keepers have been advised to implement biosecurity measures and vaccination for their birds following the release of the findings into the deaths of wild birds, mostly pigeons, in parts of the Eastern Cape.
The Eastern Cape Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform said tests done on samples sent to the Onderstepoort Veterinary Research Laboratory indicated that the birds were positive for Avian Paramyxovirus and Newcastle's Disease.
“The mortalities of the wild birds is therefore attributed to these viruses,” the Department said in a statement on Tuesday.
“Avian Paramyxovirus is a viral infection that can spread rapidly, causing high rates of pigeon illness and death and is common in many countries.”
The Department said veterinarians, specialising in birds have found a pattern whereby wild doves seem to be highly susceptible to paramyxovirus in cycles of four years.
It said that these viruses are capable of affecting other avian species including poultry but so far, there has not been any positive detection of natural infection of domestic fouls including major broiler farms.
“Human infection with this virus is rare and may only occur in people in close contact with infected birds, causing flu-like symptoms,” the statement said.
In mitigating the spread of the disease, bird keepers are advised to implement biosecurity measures and vaccination for their birds.
Biosecurity measures include:
- Cleaning and disinfecting footwear, washing hands and clothes after visiting other birds.
- Keeping lofts and equipment clean.
- Disinfecting equipment used to house, transport, feed, and water other birds.
- Preventing wild birds, feral pigeons, and their droppings from having contact with
your pigeons or contaminating their feed or water.
- Quarantine for at least two weeks any new birds or birds returning from a show or
race.
- Limiting any unnecessary visitors to your pigeon’s loft.
Newcastle disease is a viral infection of chickens (poultry) and other birds.
It is a worldwide problem that causes acute respiratory disease with nervous signs
There are registered Newcastle disease vaccines for poultry that (domestic poultry) owners are advised to use.
“Contact between wild birds and domestic poultry must be prevented at all costs,” the statement said.
