The recent highly pathogenic avian influenza outbreak in the Western Cape Province of South Africa has raised concerns among poultry consumers.
However, Dr Abongile Balarane, the CEO of the Egg Organisation at the SA Poultry Association, and Prof Kenny Mnisi from the NWU Department of Animal Science have provided reassurance regarding the safety of consuming eggs and poultry.
Dr Balarane stated that the avian influenza outbreak does not spread from chickens to humans, and there have been no reported cases of transmission from egg-layer birds to humans.
He emphasized that eggs and poultry are safe to consume as they are handled hygienically, cross-contamination is prevented, and thorough cooking is ensured. He also debunked the WhatsApp message warning consumers to avoid eggs, stating that it is unfounded and intended to create panic.
“It is safe to consume eggs. The current outbreak does not spread from chickens to humans. There are no reported cases of a spread to humans,” said Dr Balarane.
Prof Mnisi highlighted that disease outbreaks like avian influenza are more prevalent in the Global South due to factors such as the high cost of vaccines, antimicrobial resistance, and the negative impacts of climate change.
He explained that while the outbreak in the Western Cape originated from wild birds, measures should be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future. The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) reported that the virus had not been traced in commercial poultry farms since the outbreak. The affected farms were immediately placed under quarantine.
Overall, the statements from Dr Balarane and Prof Mnisi emphasize that the avian influenza outbreak does not pose a risk to human health through the consumption of eggs and poultry as long as proper hygiene and cooking practices are followed.
