The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has ramped up interventions to contain the spread of the Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).
This follows the spread of FMD to other nearby farms within Ventersdorp, at the JB Marks Local Municipality.
According to the Director of Veterinary Services Dr Langa Madyibi, the disease was detected after animals displayed clinical signs of FMD and tested positive based on tissue samples.
Despite this, he guaranteed that strict measures continue to be in place across farms in the province.
“The Veterinary teams are conducting their work under strict biosecurity protocols, including disinfecting tyres, boots and equipment, also observing a mandatory three-day no farm visit interval between site visits.
“This careful approach is designed to prevent huma-assisted transmission between farms under surveillance,” said Dr Madyibi.
Another precaution is administering the first batch of about 30 000 vaccine doses as of the 2nd of July.
The Director said farms with confirmed positive FMD cases will be prioritised and vaccinated animals will be slaughtered under controlled conditions.
He however warned that this will contribute towards stabilising the local meat supply chain.
Furthermore, Madyibi highlighted that the department has partnered with key stakeholders to ensure the compliance of FMD regulations.
“The Provincial Disaster Management Centre (PDMC) forum has also been activated and includes key stakeholders such as the South African Police Service, Traffic Law Enforcement, and agricultural industry representatives.
“These stakeholders are working in collaboration, each contributing within their areas of expertise to contain the disease,” explained Madyibi.
The farming community has been urged to immediately report any suspected FMD cases to their local State Veterinarian.
