The Department of Veterinary Services in Bulilima District has allayed fears of a suspected outbreak of the Newcastle disease in Matabeleland South province. This follows media reports last week regarding the suspected outbreak of the deadly disease in Ward 20, Dombodema.

Vet officials from the district were dispatched to investigate the cause of the reported high mortality in birds as a number of villagers had lost their chickens. Provincial veterinary officer, Enat Mdlongwa, was reported in the media dismissing the reports of the outbreak as they did not find any clinical evidence pointing to the disease. They have assured the villagers not to panic as their birds are safe.

Newcastle disease is highly contagious and deadly in poultry as it can wipe off a flock in a short space of time. No treatment for Newcastle exists but the use of prophylactic vaccines and sanitary measures reduces the likelihood of outbreaks.

Villagers are now suspecting the birds could have died as a result of heat stress as the birds showed signs of respiratory problems before death. The country is currently grappling with high temperatures of late with indications the temperatures are likely to soar in the next few weeks. Farmers should therefore take precautions and ensure there is plenty shade and clean drinking water to avoid high bird mortalities due to heat stress.