Good news in North West’s Foot and Mouth Disease fight

Nine months after its initial outbreak, the North West province in South Africa may be nearing an end of its Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) fight. The province faced a total of 186 cattle, three goats, and one pig being infected. This week marked a significant milestone as no new cases were reported since December 2025, showcasing the positive impact of a vaccination campaign underway in the region.

The South African Government revealed that the province has administered over 1.57 million doses of the FMD vaccine, with 1.41 million animals vaccinated throughout the North West. The MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Madoda Sambatha, expressed satisfaction with the recent developments. He highlighted that a full week without any new FMD cases is a remarkable achievement, signaling that their efforts to control the disease are proving effective.

He cautioned, however, that the improvements do not diminish the need for continued vigilance from farmers and livestock owners. Sambatha urged them to promptly report any suspected FMD cases to local veterinary services.

Looking ahead, the department plans to roll out booster vaccines this month in areas where animals have already received their first vaccinations. This move is part of ongoing efforts to identify and vaccinate livestock in regions where the vaccination program hasn't been implemented yet. The department also stressed the importance of maintaining close collaboration with farmers, municipalities, and traditional leaders to enhance disease monitoring and prevent further spread.