South Africa has culled 7.5 million chickens in an effort to control two strains of avian influenza that have caused dozens of outbreaks across the country. At least 205,000 chickens have died from Bird Flu, with more than half of the outbreaks occurring in Gauteng province, which includes Johannesburg and Pretoria. The cull represents 20-30% of South Africa's total chicken stock. The government is fast-tracking import permits for eggs and considering a vaccination program. The outbreaks are exacerbating an industry already struggling due to electricity shortages. Prices for eggs and poultry are expected to rise, adding to high food inflation.

The post South Africa: 7.5 million chickens culled in effort to contain Bird Flu Outbreaks appeared first on Balanced News Summary.