Bird Flu – Gauteng is facing a major agricultural and food supply crisis as the deadly H5N1 bird flu virus sweeps across the province, forcing the closure of multiple poultry farms and disrupting the region’s chicken supply chain. The outbreak, which was confirmed by the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) earlier this month, has already resulted in the culling of thousands of chickens. Experts are warning that the worst may be yet to come, especially as July progresses and more commercial farms report infections. South Africa, already grappling with food inflation and rising electricity tariffs, is now staring down a chicken shortage crisis that could impact millions of households. The sudden spread of the H5N1 virus in Gauteng—home to some of the country’s largest poultry operations—has sent shockwaves through the industry. Consumers in Johannesburg, Pretoria, and surrounding areas are already noticing price hikes on fresh chicken, eggs, and frozen poultry products. Poultry associations have raised concerns about a possible national spillover if immediate containment measures are not taken. Government officials and private stakeholders are working around the clock to contain the outbreak, but fears of a prolonged supply chain disruption remain. In 2023, a similar outbreak in the Western Cape led to the culling of over 9 million birds nationwide. This time, Gauteng is at the epicenter—and the risk to food security and economic stability is higher than ever. Authorities are urging farmers, transporters, and retailers to maintain strict biosecurity measures, and the public has been advised not to panic-buy poultry products. The poultry sector, which contributes over R50 billion to South Africa’s economy annually, now faces its biggest challenge since the Avian Influenza crisis of 2021. With over 30 farms already under quarantine and several more under investigation, consumers and producers alike are bracing for a tough July.
What Is the H5N1 Bird Flu and Why Is It So Dangerous?
H5N1 is a highly pathogenic strain of avian influenza that primarily affects birds but can also infect humans and other mammals. Its rapid spread and high mortality rate make it a serious concern for public health and food security.
- H5N1 is spread through contact with infected bird droppings, saliva, or contaminated feed.
- It can survive on surfaces for up to 48 hours in cold environments.
- Human infection is rare but possible through direct exposure.
- Symptoms in birds include sudden death, drop in egg production, and respiratory issues.
- Cull orders are mandatory once infection is confirmed on a commercial farm.
- No vaccines are currently authorized for use in South African poultry.
- The mortality rate in birds can exceed 90%.
Bird Flu – Key Signs of H5N1 Infection in Poultry
Farmers must monitor poultry flocks closely for early signs of infection. Immediate reporting is required under DALRRD guidelines.
| Symptom | Description |
|---|---|
| Sudden Death | No prior illness symptoms |
| Drop in Egg Production | Sharp decline in daily output |
| Swollen Head & Wattles | Inflammation of comb, face, or neck |
| Diarrhea | Watery, greenish droppings |
| Respiratory Distress | Coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge |
| Unusual Lethargy | Birds appear tired and unresponsive |
| Nervous Symptoms | Twisting of necks, tremors |
| Blue Discoloration | Of wattles, combs, and legs |
Immediate Impact on Gauteng Poultry Industry
The bird flu outbreak has disrupted poultry operations in Gauteng, leading to mass cullings, quarantines, and halted production. This has triggered a chain reaction affecting prices, supply, and employment.
- Over 500,000 birds culled across 30+ farms in Gauteng.
- Ekurhuleni, Sedibeng, and Tshwane districts worst affected.
- Frozen chicken prices rose by 18% in just two weeks.
- Egg production dropped by over 15% in certain zones.
- Retailers struggling to restock shelves, especially in townships.
- Poultry workers face temporary layoffs due to shutdowns.
- Transporters under biosecurity checks before farm entry.
- Increased imports of chicken expected to manage shortages.
Chicken Prices Comparison – Pre vs Post Outbreak (Gauteng)
| Product Type | Price Before (June 2025) | Price Now (July 2025) | % Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frozen Chicken 1kg | R52 | R61 | +17.3% |
| Fresh Chicken 1kg | R58 | R69 | +18.9% |
| Chicken Feet (1kg) | R32 | R39 | +21.9% |
| Chicken Livers | R30 | R36 | +20.0% |
| Egg Tray (30) | R52 | R62 | +19.2% |
| Whole Chicken | R65 | R76 | +16.9% |
| Boneless Breasts | R89 | R104 | +16.8% |
| Chicken Wings 1kg | R45 | R54 | +20.0% |
Government Response and Quarantine Zones Declared
The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) has ramped up surveillance and biosecurity enforcement in Gauteng and nearby provinces.
- 12 new quarantine zones declared across Gauteng.
- Movement of live birds restricted without permits.
- Poultry fairs and auctions suspended until further notice.
- Emergency compensation fund activated for affected farmers.
- Disinfection checkpoints installed on major poultry transport routes.
- Daily updates issued by DALRRD to track outbreak zones.
- Public urged to report dead birds or unusual poultry deaths.
- Veterinary teams deployed to high-risk areas.
Major Quarantine Zones in Gauteng (As of July 15, 2025)
| Zone ID | District | Farms Affected | Restrictions Active | Cull Completed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GZ01 | Ekurhuleni | 6 | Yes | Yes |
| GZ02 | Tshwane | 4 | Yes | Yes |
| GZ03 | Sedibeng | 5 | Yes | Ongoing |
| GZ04 | Johannesburg | 3 | Yes | Ongoing |
| GZ05 | West Rand | 2 | Yes | Yes |
| GZ06 | Midvaal | 3 | Yes | Yes |
| GZ07 | Springs | 1 | Yes | Ongoing |
| GZ08 | Benoni | 2 | Yes | Ongoing |
National Poultry Associations Raise Alarm
Industry groups warn the outbreak could soon affect other provinces if strict biosecurity is not maintained. They’re urging swift import relief and long-term vaccination strategy development.
- South African Poultry Association (SAPA) appeals for rapid import approvals.
- Calls for subsidized insurance for outbreak-affected farmers.
- Urging national poultry strategy for disease control and vaccine research.
- Retailers advised not to price gouge amid crisis.
- Suggestion to stockpile frozen chicken for public feeding schemes.
- Recommendations for temporary tax waivers on imported poultry.
- Demand for emergency transport permits to unaffected regions.
- Need for consumer awareness to prevent panic buying.
Provincial Poultry Risk Alert Map (Issued by SAPA)
| Province | Risk Level | Status | Alert Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gauteng | High | Active Outbreak | Red |
| Mpumalanga | Medium | Surveillance Ongoing | Orange |
| Free State | Low | Isolated Reports | Yellow |
| North West | Medium | Possible Exposure | Orange |
| Limpopo | Low | No Reports Yet | Green |
| KwaZulu-Natal | Medium | Monitored Cases | Yellow |
| Western Cape | Low | Recovered from 2023 | Green |
| Eastern Cape | Low | Clear | Green |
| Northern Cape | Very Low | No Poultry Zones | Green |
What Should Consumers and Small Farmers Do Now?
The public is advised not to panic-buy chicken or eggs but to remain alert for official updates. Small-scale poultry owners are encouraged to follow strict hygiene protocols.
- Do not touch dead birds—report to DALRRD immediately.
- Avoid buying live birds from informal traders during outbreak.
- Boil chicken and eggs thoroughly before consumption.
- Isolate backyard poultry from wild birds or visitors.
- Disinfect cages, coops, feeders, and clothing regularly.
- Watch for symptoms and separate sick birds immediately.
- Keep veterinary hotline numbers handy for emergencies.
- Follow DALRRD and SAPA bulletins for updated guidance.
DALRRD Contact Details for Reporting & Help
| Department Contact Center | Phone | Hours | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gauteng Veterinary Services | 012 319 6000 | [email protected] | 8am – 5pm |
| National Disease Control | 012 319 7406 | [email protected] | 24/7 hotline |
| General Inquiries (DALRRD) | 012 319 6000 | [email protected] | 8am – 4:30pm |
| SAPA Public Helpline | 011 795 9920 | [email protected] | 9am – 5pm |
The Gauteng bird flu outbreak is a serious wake-up call for South Africa’s poultry industry, food security systems, and biosecurity policies. While authorities are actively responding, public cooperation and industry preparedness will determine how quickly the country recovers from this crisis. As July unfolds, both the government and the people must remain alert and united in confronting this agricultural emergency.
FAQs of Bird Flu
Q1: Is it safe to eat chicken and eggs during the bird flu outbreak?
Yes, as long as they are properly cooked. The H5N1 virus is killed at high temperatures (above 70°C).
Q2: Can humans catch bird flu from eating infected chicken?
There is no evidence of transmission through cooked meat. Risk exists only through handling live infected birds.
Q3: How long will this outbreak last?
Containment depends on how fast infected zones are cleared and biosecurity is enforced. It may take several weeks or months.
Q4: Will there be a chicken shortage nationwide?
Currently, the crisis is localized in Gauteng, but if not controlled, it could spread to other regions, affecting national supply.
Q5: Are any financial relief packages available for affected farmers?
Yes. DALRRD has activated an emergency compensation plan for commercial farms ordered to cull their flocks.