“The recent outbreak in Bergville highlights the continued risk of FMD spread even beyond the newly declared Disease Management Area (DMA) boundaries. This reaffirms the importance of biosecurity and movement control to prevent further outbreaks,” said a statement by the Department of Agriculture.
According to the statement, traceback investigations have confirmed that the Bergville outbreak was linked to earlier infections within the DMA before its formal extension.
Two additional suspect cases outside the DMA are under investigation, and all affected areas have been placed under quarantine. Surveillance and vaccination efforts are being intensified within the DMA and a 10km radius around the infected locations to control the disease.
The Eastern Cape situation
The statement said that FMD in the Eastern Cape appeared more contained, though vigilance remained high. The province reported 40 outbreaks with 39 still open.
The Department of Agriculture told Farmer’s Weekly: “There has been no evidence of viral circulation in the 39 open outbreaks for over six months. As such, these outbreaks are not considered active, and we are hopeful that DMA restrictions can be lifted soon.”
The department is conducting further surveillance in the affected areas and anticipates that, once additional testing confirms the absence of the virus, restrictions in the Eastern Cape may be eased.
In a move to support farmers, targeted relief measures are being introduced. Farms whose herds have consistently tested negative will now be allowed to process milk for local consumption through single pasteurisation, a more cost-effective option than the previously required double pasteurisation or UHT treatment.
“These measures aim to alleviate the financial strain on farmers while maintaining biosecurity standards,” the department said.
Farmers encouraged to follow strict biosecurity protocols
Despite the progress in the Eastern Cape, the department has reminded farmers across both provinces to follow strict biosecurity protocols.
“The movement of cloven-hoofed livestock across South Africa continues to require a health declaration, and newly introduced animals must be isolated for at least 28 days. Farmers are also encouraged to limit animal movements and ensure that any new livestock is sourced from known clean farms,” said the department.
