To date, a total of 207 foot and mouth disease outbreaks have been recorded in KwaZulu-Natal, placing the province in a high-risk category, and posing a serious threat to the livestock industry, the livestock export market and food security.

Foot and mouth disease is an infectious and sometimes fatal viral disease that primarily affects cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, goats and sheep.

The Herald was contacted today (Thursday) by Harding farmer, Bertie Strydom, who confirmed that some farmers in the area have reported cases to the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.

“The situation is out-of-control in KZN and already thousands of animals are dying. This is a serious problem and affects many sectors including exports, local meat and dairy. My cows are fine for now,” he said.

The MEC of the KZN Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Thembeni KaMadlopha-Mthethwa, said vaccines will be accessible from February.

“Vaccines will be received in phases and will cover approximately 80 to 90% of the total cattle population in KwaZulu-Natal. The national department’s 10-year strategic vaccination plan is aimed at eradicating foot and mouth disease nationally and comes at a critical time for KwaZulu-Natal, which has unfortunately become the epicentre of the outbreak.”

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