Free State foot-and-mouth disease cases climb to 634
The agriculture department has warned that hiding suspected cases is a criminal offense, as 14 new FMD cases are confirmed across the Free State.
The Free State Department of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environmental Affairs has confirmed 14 new clinically diagnosed cases of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), bringing the total number of confirmed outbreaks in the province to 634.
According to the latest update on 23 June, the new cases were recorded in the following State Veterinary Areas: Boshof (5), Bloemfontein (4), Bultfontein (3), and Smithfield (2), reports the Bloemfontein Courant.
The department said FMD cases have now been confirmed in 19 local municipalities across the province. The highest number of confirmed cases remains in the Kroonstad State Veterinary Area with 117 cases, followed by Heilbron with 93, Frankfort with 74, Bethlehem with 67, and Sasolburg with 64.
As part of the province’s risk-based response strategy, authorities have vaccinated 1,053,502 cattle using Biogenesis Bago and Dolivet vaccines. While vaccination applications remain open, the department noted that high demand means not all requests will be approved during the first phase, as priority is being given to high-risk areas.
The department has also raised serious concerns over an increase in farmers failing to report suspected FMD cases. Officials warned that non-reporting is a criminal offense that hampers efforts to accurately plan vaccination campaigns and control the spread of the disease.
Farmers are urged to immediately report animals showing symptoms such as excessive salivation, mouth lesions, or lameness to their nearest state veterinarian or animal health technician. Authorities further reminded livestock owners of their legal obligations under the Animal Diseases Act, which requires reasonable measures to prevent the introduction and spread of controlled animal diseases.
In line with Government Gazette No. 51512 of 13 June 2025 and the Animal Diseases Act (Act 35 of 1984), all farmers, auctioneers, and speculators are urged to:
- Restrict the movement of cloven-hoofed animals.
- Adhere strictly to biosecurity measures, including the disinfection of vehicles and equipment.
- Quarantine any new livestock for 28 days before introducing them to existing herds.
- Keep accurate records of all animal movements and visitors to farms.
- Report any suspect cases immediately to the local state veterinary office.
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Read original story on www.bloemfonteincourant.co.za
