HESSEQUA NEWS - The first confirmed case of Avian Flu in the Hessequa region was reported on 25 October after an infected bird was found at the Witsand Main beach.
“People are advised not to handle the birds at all unless it is absolutely unavoidable and, in that instance, to please use gloves and face masks”, the Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Anton Bredell said.
Affected birds will appear to be weak and may display neurological signs such as tremors, seizures, loss of balance or head twitches.
Hessequa Municipality’s Municipal Manager, Johan Jacobs, is appealing to the public, especially those living in our coastal towns, to be vigilant and report unusual mortalities or sick birds.
The following local conservation organisations can assist:
Witsand: Lower Breede River Conservancy Trust (LBRCT) at 028 537 1296;
Stilbaai: CapeNature, Stilbaai at 028 754 2234;
Gouritsmond: Fransmanshoek Conservancy at 082 084 2791 | fransmanshoek@gmail.com
Alternatively, contact the state veterinarian or the 24/7 GRDM Emergency Call Centre on (044) 805 5071.
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