The Department of Agriculture has announced the country’s first mass vaccination program for poultry to prevent avian flu outbreaks, following urgent calls from animal welfare groups and industry stakeholders.
The initiative comes after repeated warnings from the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA), which urged government action to avert a repeat of the devastating 2023 outbreak that crippled the poultry sector.
Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen confirmed that vaccination teams would prioritize high-risk areas and commercial flocks to contain potential spread and avoid large-scale culling. Vaccines for foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) have also been secured, with initial focus on KwaZulu-Natal, where outbreaks have been reported.
Preventative Measures Against Looming Threat
While South Africa has not yet recorded an active avian flu outbreak, Minister Steenhuisen cited rising global cases—including in Brazil, a major chicken supplier—as cause for concern.
“This is a proactive step to build immunity in local flocks before an outbreak occurs,” he said. “We want to prevent the economic and food security damage seen in 2023, when mass culling drove up poultry prices.”
The vaccination drive marks a first for South Africa, with the government deploying 50 contract workers to assist veterinary teams. The program will follow science-based protocols in collaboration with the poultry industry.
Foot-and-Mouth Disease Concerns
Meanwhile, the department has allocated R72 million to address FMD outbreaks in KwaZulu-Natal and the Free State, sourcing vaccines from Botswana until local production is established. Steenhuisen emphasized that FMD does not affect humans and that meat remains safe for consumption.
Support for Farmers Still Recovering
Poultry farmers impacted by the 2023 avian flu crisis continue to face financial strain, but Steenhuisen said the focus is now on rebuilding the sector. “We’re working to expand market access and encourage new entrants, including emerging farmers, to strengthen supply and stabilize prices,” he added.
The mass vaccination program is expected to set a long-term blueprint for managing avian flu risks while safeguarding food security. Further updates on rollout progress will follow in the coming weeks.
