Bird Flu Detected in La Réunion, Mauritius on Health Alert 1

Health authorities in Mauritius are on high alert following the detection of the H5N1 avian influenza virus in La Réunion, according to a report from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) published in December 2024. The situation raised concerns due to the likelihood of contamination, particularly as migratory birds land near the Terre-Rouge estuary, where they can serve as potential reservoirs for the virus.

In response to this urgent situation, Mauritius has implemented a Level 1 health alert.

This alert coincided with the peak of the migratory season, which lasts from October to March annually; during this period, birds may carry the avian flu virus.

Furthermore, confirmed cases in La Réunion necessitate heightened vigilance from local authorities.

The Ministry of Agro-Industry is actively working to address the situation. An emergency management committee is set to be activated immediately.

They have emphasized the need for the public to remain alert and informed. “Stay on alert, Level 1: Health Alert,” they advised.

Several aggravating factors have contributed to the potential spread of infection.

The combination of heat, humidity, water scarcity, and waste management issues are creating an environment conducive to the transmission of infectious diseases.

In particular, the slow progress in implementing waste management infrastructure at Mare-Chicose by the waste management company Sotravic, alongside the risk of power outages, has raised additional concerns.

To tackle energy supply risks, the government is taking steps to import coal, ensuring a stable energy supply, while waste collection is being managed more rigorously.

Authorities have highlighted the risks posed by migratory birds, especially those arriving at the Terre-Rouge estuary.

“These birds could carry the H5N1 virus, and abandoned plots nearby can serve as hotbeds for the spread of infection,” officials stated.

As a result, poultry farmers are being urged to remain particularly vigilant.

An emergency response team will be established to closely monitor the situation, with a partnership between public and private sectors being considered to effectively allocate resources and enforce necessary measures.

“Precautionary actions must be taken immediately to address water shortages,” authorities emphasized.

A high-level ministerial committee is set to convene soon to evaluate the ongoing situation, although officials are already active on the ground.

“While there are valid concerns, we all must meet expectations and uphold our responsibilities. It is crucial to remain vigilant citizens,” they asserted.

Arvin Boolell, Mauritius’ Minister of Agro-Industry, reassured the public that the situation is being effectively managed.

“On December 24, the FAO confirmed H5N1 cases in La Réunion.

As a precautionary measure, we are closely monitoring the situation, especially given the significant bird population at the Terre-Rouge estuary.

With intensive poultry farming in Mauritius, we must take all necessary health precautions,” he explained.

The Minister stressed that there is no reason for panic but underscored the importance of ongoing vigilance.

Virologist Dr. Shameem Jaumdally warned that avian influenza poses significant risks due to its ability to mutate rapidly.

“Migratory birds are natural reservoirs for the virus, and due to the high viral load, transmission can occur swiftly,” he cautioned.

However, Dr. Jaumdally clarified that there is currently no evidence to suggest that the virus poses a particular threat to humans, although individuals with weakened immune systems may be more vulnerable.

Experts emphasized the necessity of continuous monitoring and regular testing to keep track of the evolving situation.

“Virus sequencing is a crucial step in understanding its level of threat,” the virologist added.

Poultry farmers are urged to adopt strict biosecurity measures to prevent the transmission of the virus.

“It is essential to wash hands thoroughly, disinfect boots, wear protective clothing, and change equipment when moving between farms,” Dr. Jaumdally advised.

Source: Defi Media