FOOT AND MOUTH DISEASE OUTBREAK
Limpopo Province experienced a Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak in the Vhembe District (Collins Chabane and Thulamela municipalities).
What is FMD?
Foot and Mouth Disease is a viral disease-causing wounds or lesions in the mouth and feet(hooves) of livestock (mainly Cattle, Pigs, Goats and Sheep).
How can you see it?
The disease can be seen by excessive salivation and lameness (Limping).
Can it affect Humans?
FMD does NOT affect or cause disease in humans. Meat can still be consumed from FMD infected animals.
What to do?
If the signs mentioned are seen, immediately inform officials in the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development and restrict movement of such livestock.
Movement restrictions
Movement out of the affected areas where the outbreak occurred (Collins Chabane and Thulamela) is suspended/prohibited.
Control and prevention
Make sure that your cattle are vaccinated in areas where vaccination is required.
Those who are found moving cattle illegally or without veterinary movement permit will be prosecuted.
Communities are edged to report those who are violating animal movement regulations or protocols.
Foot and Mouth Disease Symptoms
- Blisters and sores in the mouth (gums, lips, and tongue) making it difficult for the animal to eat and often causes drooling.
- Blisters and sores between the toes and where the hooves join the skin, can cause the animal to limp and not want to walk around. Sometimes they may lose their claws or hooves.
- Cows can develop sores on their teats. This results in a sudden drop in milk production.
As the Department with veterinary experts, we have managed to control the disease and we are continuing with prevention of disease through vaccination and animal movement control.
Appreciation
We wish to thank all farmers and communities who are cooperating and supporting the fight against the spread of Foot and Mouth Disease.
For more information, please visit our offices near you or call the following District Veterinary Officials.
Vhembe District – 066 079 4597 Dr Tambudzani Rhangani
Mopani District – 072 553 0122 Dr KB Mohlabe / 066 079 4201 Dr Vonani Mashau
Sekhukhune District – 082 681 7259 Dr Charmaine Nemulodi
Capricorn District – 060 978 2317 Dr Nthabiseng Mashigo
Waterberg District – 082 936 2121 Dr Kgabo Letsoalo
