According to Dr Patricia Froneman, State Veterinarian in Frankfort, wild birds and lakes are the natural habitat of this virus. In birds, influenza viruses are shared through direct contact with infected species or through contaminated food or water. She says because of the resistant nature of the virus, it can be easily carried through farm equipment and clothing, and that influences the spread of the virus from farm to farm.  Three cases have been reported from poultry farms in the Free State province. The farms where the cases have been recorded are in Villiers, Parys, and Wesselsbron. The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has deployed field veterinarians to deal with the outbreak of this virus and also called other field personnel to increase vigilance in ensuring that the virus is spotted early and is swiftly responded to.

Gun Free South Africa has lauded the proposed amendments to the country’s firearms legislation which bans the licensing of handguns for use for self-defense. SABC News reports the move by government to change the law has been met with criticism from some quarters. South Africans will not be able to apply for a gun licence on the basis that they need a firearm for self-defence, under the new legislation. Gun Free SA says the provisions align South Africa with legal obligations and global norms are based on scientific evidence. Gun Free SA’s Adèle Kirsten says they support the proposed amendments.

MEANWHILE

South Africa might see an increase in crime if the right to self-defense is taken away from responsible and law-abiding citizens. This is according to John Welch, president of the South African Gunowners Association. Welch was responding to a recent proposal, which states that firearm licenses should no longer be issued for self-defense.

OFM News