Agricultural authorities have confirmed a new outbreak of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) on a single cattle farm in the northern region of Oudtshoorn, raising concern within the local farming community and prompting swift containment measures.
The outbreak was identified after two animals on the farm tested positive for the highly contagious viral disease. State veterinarian Dr Cathy Fox responded immediately by placing the property under strict quarantine and establishing a controlled biosecurity perimeter to limit any further spread.
FMD affects cloven-hoofed animals including cattle, sheep and goats. While it poses no direct risk to human health, it has significant economic implications, particularly for the livestock industry, due to its rapid spread and the strict controls required to contain outbreaks.
According to information from authorities, the affected property has been identified as the index farm, with movement in and out of the premises now tightly restricted.
To support containment efforts, vehicle checkpoints are put in place to regulate livestock and agricultural movement in the area. Farms within a 10 km radius of the infected property were contacted directly once the outbreak was confirmed, ensuring that neighbouring farmers could take immediate precautionary steps.
Authorities have urged farmers and the public to adhere strictly to biosecurity protocols, including limiting unnecessary movement between farms and reporting any suspected symptoms immediately.
The response forms part of a broader provincial and national strategy to curb the spread of FMD. The Western Cape Government has activated strict control measures, including movement restrictions, intensified surveillance and enhanced biosecurity measures in affected areas.
The outbreak is expected to place additional pressure on the livestock sector in the Klein Karoo, where farming remains an important contributor to the local economy.
At national level, the Department of Agriculture has intensified its response to FMD, with a strong focus on vaccination and biosecurity. During a media briefing on Tuesday, 5 May, Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen said South Africa is working to secure sufficient vaccine supply, strengthen disease monitoring systems and rebuild capacity in veterinary services.
Steenhuisen also referenced lessons from countries which have made significant progress in controlling and, in some regions, eradicating FMD through coordinated vaccination campaigns, strict movement controls and strong public-private cooperation. He said South Africa is engaging internationally to strengthen its own systems, including improving access to vaccines and aligning with global best practices.
He further emphasised the importance of restoring the country’s biosecurity status and protecting export markets, warning that outbreaks such as these place significant pressure on the agricultural economy.
The situation remains under close monitoring, with further updates expected as surveillance and testing continue in the surrounding area.
FMD strikes Oudtshoorn farm
Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen during Tuesday’s media briefing on ongoing efforts to strengthen South Africa’s response to Foot-and-Mouth Disease.