Namibian avian influenza strain can infect humans

ELLANIE SMIT WINDHOEKThe agriculture ministry has confirmed that the outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 strain detected in wild birds along the coastal line of Walvis bay and Swakopmund is zoonotic, and can be transmitted to humans.Over 200 dead wild birds have been observed on Bird Island near Walvis Bay and around the Salt Company in Swakopmund since 13 January.The source of the infection is believed to be wild migratory birds.“Farmers and the general public should immediately report any sick or dead domestic and wild birds anywhere in Namibia to the nearest state veterinary office or other relevant government officials,” the ministry said.It further urged farmers and the public to cooperate and comply with precautionary measures. Signs and symptomsClinical signs in birds include swelling and purple discoloration of the head, comb and wattle and red discolouration of the feet; bleeding of internal organs and muscles; greenish diarrhoea; twisting of the neck; staggering movement and paralysis of wings and legs.In people, signs can include high fever; general body weakness; cough; sore throat; muscle aches; abdominal pain; chest pain and diarrhoea.The infection may progress quickly to severe respiratory illness such as difficulty in breathing or shortness of breath and neurological changes.Both the health and agricultural ministries are jointly conducting disease outbreak investigations and the harvesting and transport of seabird droppings (guano) from the Erongo Region has been suspended.However, guano harvested by 31 October 2021 may still be exported, provided the importing country gives permission.The movement of live domestic and wild birds from Erongo has also been banned, with exception of imports and in-transit consignments originating from other countries.Poultry farmers have been urged to apply biosecurity measures to prevent the introduction of an infection into their poultry farms. ellanie@namibiansun.com

Namibian avian influenza strain can infect humans

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Namibian Sun 2026-09-22

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Namibian avian influenza strain can infect humans

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Namibian Sun 2026-09-22

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