-
A worker shows the mouth of a cow.
The Western Cape Department of Agriculture has urged livestock farmers across the province to be alert and exercise extreme caution following recent outbreaks of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) reported in KwaZulu-Natal.
The contagious viral disease, which affects cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs, has also spread to Mpumalanga and Gauteng, reportedly through livestock auctions.
Departmental Spokesperson Mary James highlighted the risk of undetected transmission, as infected animals can carry and spread the disease before showing visible symptoms.
She strongly advised farmers to only purchase animals from verified and reputable sources and to avoid acquiring livestock from provinces where outbreaks have occurred.
“Infected animals can spread the disease before they show signs. So, it’s important to buy livestock with a known health status and to keep new animals separate for 28 days so they can be observed for signs of disease,” said James.
The department has also emphasised the importance of early detection and swift action.
Farmers who suspect any signs of FMD infection in their animals are encouraged to immediately report it to their nearest state veterinary office. Contact information for local vet offices is available via the veterinary services program on the department’s website,
The department continues to monitor the situation and collaborate with national authorities to contain the spread of the disease and safeguard the province’s livestock industry.
[🚨 IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT 🚨]
Foot-and-mouth disease has been confirmed in KZN, Mpumalanga & Gauteng.
✅ WC farmers: Please stay vigilant and follow strict biosecurity measures.
🐄 Let’s work together to keep our livestock FMD free.
⬇️ Listen to the announcement to learn more. pic.twitter.com/NnXsAFNx50— WC Dept of Agriculture (@WCGovAgri) June 6, 2025
