South Africa’s (SA) Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen has announced encouraging early results in South Africa’s fight against Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD), with the national vaccination campaign showing clear signs of success.
Steenhuisen says more than two million animals have been vaccinated between February and March 26, 2026, with no new infections recorded in already vaccinated herds.
Although cases have been reported in all nine provinces, the Department says that the recent increase reflects improved detection rather than a worsening outbreak.
“The recent increase in reported numbers is due to improved government capacity. We have strengthened surveillance and implemented a centralised reporting system, allowing for earlier detection and faster data capture. Furthermore, heightened awareness has helped identify “sub-clinical” cases, where animals carry the virus without showing obvious symptoms, which previously might have gone unnoticed,” Steenhuisen explains.
The Department says it has secured over four million vaccine doses, with additional shipments expected before the end of April. The rollout is being carried out using a risk-based approach, with high-density livestock areas and key sectors such as dairy farming being prioritised.
—SABC—
