FMD spread in Mpumalanga linked to unverified auction cattle
Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) has resurfaced in Mpumalanga, South Africa, linked to cattle purchased from unverified auctions. The provincial agriculture department is urging farmers to strictly verify the health status of livestock before transport to prevent further outbreaks.
Why it matters
FMD is a highly contagious viral disease that can devastate livestock industries and disrupt international trade, making strict biosecurity measures essential for food security.
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<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>New foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) infections in Mpumalanga have been linked to cattle bought from auctions whose disease status was not verified, prompting the province’s agriculture department to urge farmers to check the health status of animals before buying or transporting them.</em> </p>
<p><strong><em>By Montsho Matlala</em></strong> </p>
<p>The Mpumalanga Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs (MP DARDLEA) reminds farmers of key precautions when transporting or translocating animals for slaughter or trading: </p>
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<li>The origin and destination should have the same FMD or other controlled disease status. </li>
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<li>Direct slaughter to the abattoir from quarantined farms should be under veterinary permit. </li>
<li>Animals vaccinated in line with requirements may be moved. </li>
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