South African authorities have confirmed the re-emergence of the highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus on two poultry farms the nation’s first reported cases since September 2024. The announcement was made through the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH), based in Paris.
According to WOAH, the virus was identified during routine surveillance efforts. The H5N1 strain, notorious for causing significant losses in bird populations and raising global health concerns, remains under close observation by health authorities due to its potential to mutate.
While H5N1 rarely infects humans, officials have warned the public to stay vigilant. No human cases have been reported so far, but citizens are being urged to avoid contact with sick or dead birds and to report unusual poultry deaths to veterinary services immediately.
The outbreak is once again placing pressure on South Africa’s poultry industry, which suffered severe disruptions from previous H5N1 waves, including mass cullings and export bans.
Containment measures are currently being enforced at the affected farms as part of efforts to limit further spread. The government has not released specific details on the regions affected but emphasized that biosecurity protocols and rapid response plans have been activated.
Poultry industry stakeholders and public health officials are monitoring the situation closely, as South Africa works to protect both animal and human health from the potential impacts of the virus.
Suomi 
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