FMD: The current situation

The outbreaks of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) in South Africa are abating in some areas, while spread is still ongoing in other areas.

According to a press release by the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, the outbreaks that had spread to an auction and three farms in the Free State and Gauteng were successfully controlled and the farms were cleared of affected animals. These cases will be officially closed as soon as disinfection processes, as well as surveillance, have been concluded. The Department thanked the affected farmers, the livestock industry and the Veterinary Services of the two provinces for their cooperation and assistance to effectively control these outbreaks.