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  • Rift Valley Fever (RVF) outbreak spreads to Namibia

    Source: http://www.southerntimesafrica.com/a...82eb655544f2ac


    Rift Valley Fever (RVF) outbreak spreads to Namibia
    By Southern Times Writer 14-05-2010

    Windhoek - Rift Valley Fever (RVF), detected in South Africa three months ago has spread into southern Namibia with cases reported in the Karas and Hardap regions, the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry said on Friday.

    Namibia banned the import of South Africa meat imports and live animals from that country following the outbreak of the viral disease which affects wild animals and domestic animals such as cattle and sheep.

    Namibia's acting chief veterinary officer Cleopas Bamhare said RVF cases had been detected and confirmed at two farms in the Hardap region. There is also a suspicious outbreak under investigation in the Karas region. The Government said it had banned movement of cattle, sheep and goats in the two regions.

    'The ministry imposes with immediate effect, the suspension of all movement of cattle, sheep and goats from, into within and through the two regions of Karas and Hardap for one week,' Bamhare said in a statement. RVF is prevalent in east and north Africa. In South Africa the outbreak was detected earlier this year.

    The South African government has confirmed 186 cases of the viral fever in humans by May 10, including 18 deaths in the Free State, Eastern, Western and Northern Cape as well as the North West Provinces.

    RVF is a viral disease in livestock such as cattle, sheep and camels but can also infect humans through indirect or direct contact with infected animal blood or organs.

    'Therefore all permits that were issued involving the two regions have been suspended. The slaughter of cattle, sheep and goats at export abattoirs and the sale of animals at auctions have also been suspended,' Bamhare said.

    The Government also said it had closed movement of livestock and meat products at two border posts linking Namibia to South Africa, Noordoewer and Ariamsvlei.

    'Noordoewer and Ariamsvlei border posts are now closed to livestock, including fresh or frozen meat for own consumption. 'The measures have been imposed in order to allow time to ascertain the extent of the outbreak and to open negotiations with trading partners,' Bamhare said.

    The Government would up its surveillance and urged people who have recently been in contact with sick animals, organs or their body fluids and are showing signs of RVF sickness to seek medical attention.

  • #2
    Re: Rift Valley Fever (RVF) outbreak spreads to Namibia

    Source: http://www.republikein.com.na/politi...ons.106909.php


    14.05.2010
    Outbreak of Rift Valley Fever in Hardap and Karas Regions
    Press Release-Updated

    Following the outbreak of Rift Valley Fever in the Republic of South Africa last year, the state veterinary services of Namibia has been on high alert. As a result the first cases have been detected and confirmed at two farms in the Hardap Region on 12 May 2010. In addition, there is one suspicious outbreak under investigation in the Karas Region. Rift Valley fever is an insect borne viral disease of cattle, sheep and goats which can also affect Humans.

    As a consequence, the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry imposes, with immediate effect, the suspension of all movement of cattle, sheep and goats from, into within and through the two regions of Karas and Hardap for one week. Therefore all permits that were issued involving the 2 regions have been suspended. The slaughter of cattle, sheep and goats at export abattoirs and the sale of animals at auctions have also been suspended. All border posts are now closed for livestock, game animals including fresh or frozen meat for own consumption until further notice.

    These measures have been imposed in order to allow time to ascertain the extent of the outbreak and to open negotiations with trading partners. Updates on the prevailing situation will be given as information is received.

    Meanwhile intensified surveillance activities are underway in the Karas and Hardap Region and state veterinarians elsewhere in the country have been put on high alert. Farmers are therefore urged to report any animals (cattle, sheep and goats) that exhibit suspicious signs (as outlined below) to their nearest veterinary official, to assist and cooperate with veterinary officials in their investigations. Owners of farms in high risk areas (close to water bodies, recently received heavy rainfall and experiencing increased biting fly activity) are urged to be particularly vigilant.

    Efforts are underway to import Rift Valley Fever vaccines and make them available to farmers through local suppliers.

    The following information is to assist farmers, livestock handlers and the public to recognize Rift Valley Fever and protect themselves and their livestock from possible infection.
    DISEASE IN ANIMALS

    Signs of the disease tend to be non-specific making it difficult to recognize individual cases. During epidemics however, the occurrence of numerous abortions and mortality in among young animals is characteristic. Affected animals are listless, do not move or feed and may exhibit signs of abdominal pain. Young animals may die within 36 hours of the onset of signs. Older animals may take longer to die or show no apparent signs. Some animals regurgitate food and may have bloody diarrhea and blood-stained mucopurulent nasal discharge. Cattle may have yellow pigmentation of mucous membranes, salivation, stop producing milk and increased tear production.
    TRANSMISSION TO ANIMALS

    Several different species of mosquito are able to act as vectors for transmission of the RVF virus. Among animals, the RVF virus is spread primarily by the bite of infected mosquitoes, mainly the Aedes species. There is also a potential for outbreaks and associated human epidemics to spread to areas that were previously unaffected. This can occur when infected animals introduce the virus into areas where vectors are present and this is of particular concern.
    TRANSMISSION TO HUMANS

    ? the vast majority of human infections result from direct or indirect contact with the blood or organs of infected animals.

    ? the virus can be transmitted to humans through the handling of animal tissue during slaughtering or butchering, assisting with animal births, conducting veterinary procedures, or from the disposal of carcasses or fetuses.


    ? certain occupational groups such as herders, farmers, slaughterhouse workers and veterinarians are therefore at higher risk of infection.


    ? there is some evidence that humans may also become infected with RVF by ingesting the unpasteurized or uncooked milk of infected animals.



    ? human infections have also resulted from the bites of infected mosquitoes, most commonly the Aedes mosquito.

    ? Transmission of RVF virus by hematophagous (blood-feeding) flies is also possible.
    CLINICAL SIGNS IN HUMANS

    ? feverish syndrome with sudden onset of flu-like fever,

    ? muscle pain, joint pain and headache.

    ? hemorrhagic fever
    TREATMENT AND VACCINE

    There is no specific treatment or effective human vaccine, so it is important to raise awareness of risk factors and ensure people take protective measures to prevent exposure. Gloves and other protective clothing should be worn when handling sick animals or their tissues or when slaughtering.
    PREVENTION AND CONTROL

    Controlling RVF in animals

    Outbreaks of RVF in animals can be prevented by a sustained programme of animal vaccination. There are two types of vaccine available on the market: the live attenuated RVF vaccine and the inactivated (killed) vaccine. The live attenuated vaccine should not be used in pregnant animals as it can cause abortion and birth defects. The inactivated vaccine is suitable for pregnant animals. The attenuated live vaccine confers long-term immunity and can be used in non-pregnant animals.

    Restricting or banning the movement of livestock may be effective in slowing the expansion of the virus from infected to uninfected areas.
    Vector control

    Other ways in which to control the spread of RVF involve control of the vector and protection against their bites.

    Animal products including blood, meat and milk should be thoroughly cooked before eating. Humans should also sleep under mosquito nets and wear long-sleeved shirts and trousers to protect against bites.

    Any persons who has recently come in contact with sick animals, organs or their body fluids and is manifesting the aforementioned signs must seek medical attention at the nearest state hospital or medical facility. More information on Rift Valley Fever can be obtained from your local state veterinarian

    Comment


    • #3
      Re: Rift Valley Fever (RVF) outbreak spreads to Namibia

      Source: http://www.newera.com.na/article.php?articleid=10960


      Rift Valley outbreak - by Irene !Hoa?s

      WINDHOEK ? Namibian veterinary authorities have detected and confirmed Rift Valley Fever at two farms in the Hardap Region.

      Following the outbreak of Rift Valley Fever (RVF) in neighbouring South Africa last year, the state veterinary services department in Namibia has been on high alert.

      The Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry (MAWF) is investigating a second suspicious outbreak in the Karas Region, which also borders South Africa...

      Comment


      • #4
        Re: Rift Valley Fever (RVF) outbreak spreads to Namibia

        Source: http://www.namibian.com.na/news/full...eak-confirmed/

        19.05.10
        Rift Valley outbreak confirmed

        By: DENVER KISTING
        LABORATORY results have confirmed that Namibia is indeed fighting an outbreak of Rift Valley fever.

        So said Dr Alec Bishi, a State veterinarian in the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry, yesterday afternoon.

        Moreover, the disease has been detected at a third farm in the worst-hit region, Hardap, Bishi said...

        Comment


        • #5
          Re: Rift Valley Fever (RVF) outbreak spreads to Namibia

          Namibia: Confusion Reigns About Rift Valley Fever Vaccination

          Denver Kisting
          28 May 2010

          CONFUSION about which animals should be vaccinated against Rift Valley fever (RVF) is rife in the panic-stricken Namibian farming community.
          At the same time, the little vaccine that has been available has flown off the shelves within days and suppliers "hope and pray" to receive more vaccines by next week.

          The disease broke out on seven Namibian farms two weeks ago, killing at least 17 animals. About 35 farms in the Hardap and Karas Regions are still regarded as high-risk areas.

          Dr Cleopas Bamhare, the acting chief veterinary officer at the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry, yesterday said the understanding at this stage was that all live animals needed to have been vaccinated at least 21 days ago before the animals may be exported to South Africa (SA).

          .../

          Full text at:

          CONFUSION about which animals should be vaccinated against Rift Valley fever (RVF) is rife in the panic-stricken Namibian farming community.
          "Safety and security don't just happen, they are the result of collective consensus and public investment. We owe our children, the most vulnerable citizens in our society, a life free of violence and fear."
          -Nelson Mandela

          Comment


          • #6
            Re: Rift Valley Fever (RVF) outbreak spreads to Namibia

            Source: http://allafrica.com/stories/201006170586.html

            The Namibian (Windhoek)
            Namibia: RVF Under Control - for the Time Being

            Denver Kisting

            17 June 2010

            NAMIBIA got off lightly from the recent outbreak of Rift Valley fever (RVF), which caused the agricultural sector revenue losses of millions of dollars.

            However, should farmers not take precautionary measures by vaccinating their animals, they might be in for a rough ride next summer.

            So says Dr Cleopas Bamhare, acting chief veterinary officer in the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry.

            According to Bamhare, no new RVF infections have been reported since the ones reported on six farms in the Hardap Region and one in the Karas Region. The onset of winter played a significant role in bringing the deadly disease under control for the time being, he said.

            Seventeen animals died in the two affected regions in what was regarded as the first RVF outbreak in Namibia since 1985.

            Hundreds of animals and close to 20 people died of RVF in neighbouring South Africa (SA) recently.

            If Namibia does not prepare adequately against a follow-up outbreak, the country might be worse off than it was during last month's outbreak.

            "It is the next season that we are worried about. For now, it is under control," Bamhare said.

            No human infections have been reported in Namibia.

            He said the department of veterinary services dealt with the outbreak 'textbook-style', which helped convince trade partners to lift restrictions on imports of Namibian animals and meat products within weeks.

            "And a situation like that [trade restrictions] could take months to bring under control, crippling the industry," Bamhare said.

            He said there are still no proper statistics available of the number of animals that have been vaccinated against RVF. In terms of an agreement with SA, live animals must have been vaccinated at least 21 days before being allowed into that country.

            Bamhare spoke to The Namibian at an aquatic animal health training seminar that started in Swakopmund on Tuesday evening. The workshop continues until Saturday.

            Comment


            • #7
              Re: Rift Valley Fever (RVF) outbreak spreads to Namibia

              Namibia: More Rift Valley Fever Cases Detected
              8 July 2010

              Windhoek ? New Rift Valley Fever (RVF) cases have been diagnosed at six farms, including one in the Erongo Region, in addition to farms in the Hardap and Karas regions.

              The Directorate of Veterinary Services' surveillance activities have led to the diagnosis on six other farms, bringing the total number of farms to 14.

              One of the newly identified farms is in the Erongo Region, two are in the Karas Region, and three in the Hardap Region.

              Hardap has the highest number of animals affected by the outbreak, where 11 farms are affected. The outbreak in Erongo is the first of its kind.

              The Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry said measures to contain the outbreaks are being implemented with the co-operation of affected farmers. The total number of reported clinical cases so far identified is 67 and 46 deaths from a total population of 9700 small stock on the affected farms.

              Clinical signs of infection include abortion, stillbirths, weakness, bloody diarrhoea and difficulty in breathing.

              All cases (except on two farms where goats were affected) involve sheep.

              "These findings indicate that the disease is not widespread and can be described as sporadic at this stage. This situation can be explained by the prevailing winter conditions that do not favour the survival of the vectors (mosquitoes and biting flies)," a statement by the Directorate of Veterinary Services read. The directorate, however, warns farmers that the disease is likely to cause a widespread epidemic during the next rainy season when vector activity is expected to increase if animals are not vaccinated.

              Farmers are therefore urged to vaccinate their livestock - cattle, sheep and goats - during this time.

              Control measures that were previously announced remain in place.

              The importation of live ruminants, such as cattle, sheep, goats and game into South Africa under a RSA veterinary import permit and health certificate processed by a the Directorate of Veterinary Services of Namibia will be allowed, provided the animals did not pass through a RVF-infected zone during transportation.

              Movement of livestock within the country is now permitted subject to a movement permit issued by the Directorate of Veterinary Services, except from farms that are under restriction for Rift Valley Fever or other reasons.

              Farms under movement restriction due to RVF will be allowed to move livestock 21 days after vaccination, while no live game animal will be allowed to move from the restricted farms.

              Sustainable Development
              The directorate predicts that there is an increased risk of the epidemic during the coming rainy season. All livestock in the Hardap and Karas regions must be vaccinated before the onset of the rains.

              In this regard, the Directorate of Veterinary Services will announce measures to be followed with regards to vaccination shortly.

              Transporters intending to move animals through Botswana are expected to vaccinate their livestock with an attenuated live vaccine at least 21 days prior to movement.

              Prior arrangements with the local State veterinary office must be made to avoid problems.

              In the meantime, farmers who have vaccinated or would like to vaccinate their livestock, must inform their State veterinarian three working days prior to vaccination, provide proof of purchase of vaccine and empty vaccine containers.
              New Rift Valley Fever (RVF) cases have been diagnosed at six farms, including one in the Erongo Region, in addition to farms in the Hardap and Karas regions.
              Twitter: @RonanKelly13
              The views expressed are mine alone and do not represent the views of my employer or any other person or organization.

              Comment


              • #8
                Re: Rift Valley Fever (RVF) outbreak spreads to Namibia

                Namibia praised for RVF fight

                33 minutes ago


                Rome - The UN on Wednesday praised Namibia for its success in fighting a rare outbreak of Rift Valley Fever earlier this year, saying its swift response saved many lives.

                Namibia's "alertness and prompt reaction prevented outbreaks of Rift Valley Fever in May 2010 from spreading, with potentially devastating consequences on lives, livelihoods and food security," said Jacques Diouf, the Director-General of the UN's Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO).

                Diouf, who was speaking at a meeting of Namibia's Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry in the capital Windhoek, had special praise for the country's meat industry for spotting and curbing the outbreak...

                Read more:
                The UN has praised Namibia for its success in fighting a rare outbreak of Rift Valley Fever, saying its swift response has saved many lives.
                "Safety and security don't just happen, they are the result of collective consensus and public investment. We owe our children, the most vulnerable citizens in our society, a life free of violence and fear."
                -Nelson Mandela

                Comment


                • #9
                  Re: Rift Valley Fever (RVF) outbreak spreads to Namibia

                  Namibia: Three Suspected Cases of Rift Valley Fever Reported

                  AT LEAST three Namibians are suspected to have been infected with the deadly Rift Valley Fever (RVF).

                  This comes close to five months after tens of Namibian animals were infected with RVF.

                  It was the first outbreak of the disease in the country since 1985.

                  A notice about the three affected farmers was published in the weekly newsletter of the Namibia Agricultural Union (NAU) last Friday.

                  Until yesterday, however, Dr Jack Vries, chairperson of the Ministry of Health and Social Service's National Health Emergency Management Committee, had not been officially informed about the cases.

                  Vries told The Namibian that none of the country's two laboratories had made any positive diagnoses.

                  This, he said, could be as a result of patients being tested in South Africa or not being tested at all.

                  A Dorper sheep farmer, in the south of the country, yesterday said that he accidentally injected himself whilst he was busy immunising his sheep about three weeks ago. "I accidentally injected myself that Friday afternoon. By 19h00 [that evening], I realised there was big trouble."

                  According to him, he could by then not even talk anymore. Apart from this, he experienced a high fever, an increased heart beat and painful urination. "I also had terrible headaches. My urine was golden yellow, and it was painful when I urinated. And the heartbeats - it feels like your heart wants to run away."

                  It was only by Saturday afternoon that he could talk again, he said.

                  The farmer said that he decided not to go to a doctor. Instead, he spent a week in bed. A veterinarian he spoke to told him that it "must be" RVF, he said.

                  In its newsletter, the NAU urged farmers "to be very cautious when animals are vaccinated against RVF. If one gets pricked by the needle, the disease can be contracted through the vaccine".

                  The union issued this warning "following the confirmation of three farmers in the south of Namibia who were identified with the dreaded RVF".

                  Dr Cleopas Bamhare, acting chief veterinary officer in the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry, earlier warned people to wear rubber gloves and face masks when they come into close contact with sick animals, aborted foetuses, blood and other body fluids ,especially during handling, slaughtering, butchering and milking, to avoid human infections.

                  Meat intended for human consumption needs to be chilled and matured at two degrees Celsius for at least 24 hours. This, he said, will inactivate the virus if it is present.


                  The past week, Bamhare said no new animal infections have been reported to his office.

                  Earlier this year, it was reported that close to a 100 animals were affected in Namibia. Half of these died.

                  Namibian farmers lost millions of dollars as a result of export bans that were in place when the outbreak was rife.

                  More than 20 humans and hundreds of animals died in neighbouring South Africa during a recent RVF outbreak there.

                  Bamhare also earlier warned Namibians that RVF could cause a widespread epidemic in the next raining season.

                  According to Vries, the man would have landed in the intensive care unit (ICU) had it been RVF. However, another doctor The Namibian spoke to said it is "definitely possible" for the farmer to have contracted the virus through the live vaccine.

                  The farmer confirmed that it was the live vaccine.

                  AT LEAST three Namibians are suspected to have been infected with the deadly Rift Valley Fever (RVF).

                  Comment

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