Zambia still at high risk of Bird Flu

Livestock and Fisheries Minister Michael Katambo

Livestock and Fisheries Minister Michael Katambo says Zambia still remains at high risk of the resurgent avian influenza also known as bird flu which has affected some African countries.

In a ministerial statement, Mr Katambo says while Zambia has not recorded any cases of bird flu, some neighboring countries have continued to see cases and in some instances the disease has spread, citing South Africa as one such country where the disease has spread.

He says while Zimbabwe last reported of cases on 13^th September, 2017, the country has not resolved the outbreak.

Mr Katambo says it’s therefore important that any high mortality of chickens, ducks, guinea fowls or any other bird is reported to the nearest department of veterinary services office.

He has further advised bird owners to house their poultry in order to avoid interaction between domestic and wild birds and animals.

Mr Katambo adds that currently there are no drugs or vaccines available to cure infected birds, and that the only solution is to cull all birds in the affected catchment.