The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government has escalated its intervention efforts to curb the spread of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) in the uThukela District, with intensified operations now underway across affected areas.

This was highlighted on Tuesday (February 10) when the departments of Co-operative Governance & Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) and Agriculture & Rural Development (DARD) hosted a Foot-and-Mouth Disease Intervention Programme at the Okhahlamba Multi-Purpose Centre. The engagement brought together local farmers, community members, Amakhosi, municipal representatives, departmental stakeholders and other key role-players, demonstrating a co-ordinated response to the outbreak.

First case in Okhahlamba

The first case of FMD in Okhahlamba was recorded in March 2025, prompting the immediate quarantine of affected areas and the commencement of testing. Although the situation stabilised temporarily, the virus resurfaced and spread rapidly in July 2025.

Cases that have been confirmed so far

During the engagement, it was revealed that 37 positive cases had been confirmed, with infections detected at dip tanks and livestock kraals. Samples were collected and submitted to laboratories for confirmation. The uThukela District has since emerged as one of the hardest-hit districts in the province, with 62% of tested samples returning positive results. To date, the Department of Agriculture has collected more than 3500 samples across the district as part of ongoing monitoring and containment efforts.

Several challenges

However, several challenges continue to hamper response measures. These include a shortage of vaccines, particularly from the end of November 2025, which contributed to a rise in infections. The illegal movement of livestock without notifying authorities has also been flagged as a major concern, as it undermines control measures and prevents farmers from receiving proper guidance and disease prevention support. In addition, delays in laboratory results have affected the speed of intervention.

How Foot-and-Mouth Disease spreads

Foot-and-Mouth Disease spreads easily between animals through saliva, open wounds and contaminated items such as shoes, vehicles and equipment moving between farms. Symptoms typically appear 10-14 days after infection. Affected livestock are treated with antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medication to manage pain and prevent secondary infections.

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