DFFE warns that avian influenza may have reached Marion Island
Officials believe the virus could've caused deaths in at least three breeding seabird species on the island.
Penguins on Marion Island. Picture: https://www.sanap.ac.za/
CAPE TOWN - The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has warned that the highly infectious avian influenza virus is suspected to have reached Marion Island.
It's one of South Africa's two sub-Antarctic islands in the southern Indian Ocean.
Officials believe the virus could've caused deaths in at least three breeding seabird species.
"After an initial suspected case in a Brown Skua in mid-September 2024, another five suspected cases were found in early November 2024, involving three Wandering Albatross chicks and two Southern Giant Petrel adults. The virus can be transported long distances by migrating birds, and this is likely how the virus arrived on Marion Island."
The department's Peter Mbelengwa says the island is a breeding and moulting site for millions of seabirds, including almost half the world's Wandering Albatrosses and scores of penguins.
"The situation is being closely monitored by the 11-field personnel overwintering on the island, who have been trained to recognise possible HPAI signs in birds and seals, and in the necessary monitoring and mitigation methods. They will be taking all precautions to ensure they do not spread the virus, and they are collecting information to assist with decisions about the appropriate response."