Escalating Efforts to Control Foot and Mouth Disease Outbreaks in South Africa

In a resolute fight against Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal provinces of South Africa continue to face strict movement controls. The Department of Agriculture has maintained stringent regulations within specified Disease Management Areas (DMAs) to curb the disease's spread, which has notably affected regions such as Humansdorp and the upward-reaching areas of uPhongolo Municipality.

Early detection in May 2024 led to an immediate response, including the vaccination of nearly 97,000 cattle and 635 sheep. This preventive measure aimed at managing the outbreak, which initially impacted 37 farms in the Eastern Cape alone. The proactive vaccination of adjacent farms has played a crucial role in preventing further transmission.

While new FMD cases have not been reported in the Eastern Cape since September 19, 2024, signifying a potential waning of the virus, the situation in KwaZulu-Natal remains critical. The infection reached the uPhongolo Municipality, prompting a review and expansion of the existing DMAs to encompass more areas at risk.

As of the latest updates, KwaZulu-Natal has documented 155 FMD cases since the onset in May 2021, under the South African Territories 2 FMD event label. Efforts to resolve these cases have seen the closure of 17 outbreaks with the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), leaving 133 active cases that require ongoing management.

To mitigate the spread, stringent biosecurity measures are in practice, and controlled slaughter protocols have been established. Designated abattoirs with heightened biosecurity procedures are set up to ensure that meat from infected farms, while restricted from export, remains safe for local consumption.

The department has emphasized the vital role of farmers, veterinarians, and community stakeholders in adhering to control measures. Such collaboration is essential not only to manage current outbreaks but also to prevent future occurrences. Enhanced surveillance, immediate reporting of symptoms, and maintaining updated health declarations for livestock movements are pivotal components of the strategy to safeguard the livestock sector from FMD.

Overall, the continued vigilance and comprehensive containment strategies reflect a committed effort by the South African agricultural authorities and community to manage and eventually eradicate FMD from key affected regions.