Staff Reporter
AN outbreak of avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, has been confirmed in backyard chickens in Botswana’s Chobe District, which borders Namibia’s Zambezi Region.
The Namibian Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform has issued an alert to farmers and the general public, warning of the highly contagious viral disease that affects both domestic and wild birds. The virus can also infect some mammalian species, including humans.
According to veterinary officials, avian influenza is spread through contact with infected birds’ faeces or respiratory secretions, and can also be transmitted via contaminated feed, water, or farm equipment. This makes the virus particularly difficult to control, as it can easily move from one farm to another.
Infected birds may display a range of clinical signs, including sudden death, diarrhoea, facial swelling, dullness, loss of appetite, discolouration of the comb and wattles, coughing, nervous symptoms like paralysis, and discharge from the eyes and nose.
Authorities are reminding farmers that under the Animal Health Act (Act No. 1 of 2011), a valid veterinary import permit is required for importing animals, animal products, and other restricted materials into Namibia. Additionally, all birds must be tested for avian influenza before being imported.
Farmers and poultry owners are urged to remain vigilant and to immediately report any suspected cases of avian influenza to their nearest veterinary office.
Photo: Namibian Farmer
