The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has reported a concerning outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) in the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District, specifically within the JB Marks Local Municipality. The initial alarm was raised when a private veterinarian identified suspected signs of the disease during a farm visit, prompting further investigation by state authorities.
According to an official statement from the department, a State Veterinarian subsequently collected samples from the affected animals, which were dispatched to the Onderstepoort Veterinary Institute (OVI) for testing. This vigilant action confirmed the presence of both SAT 2 and SAT 3 strains of the virus, a significant finding that raises alarms for the agricultural sector in the region.
The outbreak has not been restricted to agricultural properties, with reports emerging of another incident at an abattoir in Madibeng. Here, clinical signs, which were initially overlooked during the ante-mortem inspection, were detected later on the slaughter line. Tissue samples taken from these animals similarly tested positive for the virus, adding to the urgency of the situation.
In response to these developments, the Department of Agriculture has imposed strict quarantines on both farms linked to the outbreak. This significant measure aims to restrict the movement of animals and animal products, thereby curbing the potential spread of this highly contagious disease. Additionally, all farms connected to the recent Gauteng outbreak are undergoing sampling and precautionary quarantines while test results are awaited.
Farmers across the province are being urged to remain vigilant and to report any suspected cases of FMD to their local state veterinarian as quickly as possible. Essential signs to watch for include fever, lameness, and sores in the mouth, feet, and teats of affected cloven-hoofed animals, such as cattle, pigs, and sheep.
As the department works tirelessly to manage and contain this outbreak, the situation underscores the critical need for animal health vigilance within the agricultural community. The consequences of FMD outbreaks can be severe, impacting not only animal welfare but also economic stability within the agricultural sector.
