Northern chickens under quarantine Strict control measures have been implemented following an outbreak of Newcastle disease that has killed thousands of chickens in northern communal areas.The Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry yesterday said that the outbreak started in the Omusati Region in July and the disease has so far been confirmed in Oshana, Ohangwena and Oshikoto.
The ministry therefore said that all movements of live birds, uncooked eggs and feathers within, from and into Omusati, Ohangwena and Oshikoto are banned with immediate effect.
Live birds include chickens, ducks, ostriches, guinea fowl, caged birds, pigeons and doves. Chicken feed originating from establishments where live chickens are kept is also included in the quarantine.
Movements of live birds, uncooked eggs and feathers from countries that border the affected northern regions of Namibia are also banned.
Inspections are being conducted at roadblocks within the northern communal areas. There are also regular patrols along the international borders.
Commercial poultry or bird farmers have been urged to vaccinate their birds against the disease.
The public is advised not to eat any poultry or birds that have died from the disease, or any other disease. Such carcasses must be destroyed by burning.
According to the ministry an outbreak of this magnitude has not been seen in the country for a very long time, but the disease is not new to Namibia.
Newcastle disease is highly infectious viral disease of birds. It is characterised by diarrhoea, bowing of heads, swollen head and wattles, paralysis and twisting of the neck, sneezing, coughing, gasping and nasal discharge.
ELLANIE SMIT