The Free State Department of Agriculture and Rural Development says three new cases of foot-and-mouth Disease (FMD) have been reported in the province.
In a notice to farmers, Agriculture MEC Thembeni Nxangisa confirmed three cases and said his department was working with the affected farmers to ensure the disease is contained.
“There is one case in Marquard and two cases in Viljoenskroon,” he said.
“All farms have been placed under quarantine after chief state veterinarians were notified about possible signs of foot-and-mouth disease.
“On these farms, the animals showed typical signs of FMD and samples were collected in order for the diagnosis to be confirmed.”
Nxangisa said in Viljoenskroon, two farms were initially investigated but confirmation was received on one farm, while results on the second are still pending.
“The farm where the positive case has been confirmed, investigations are still continuing to determine the source of the outbreak,” he said.
At the second farm in Viljoenskroon where the tests are still pending, the farm owner is alleged to have moved animals from the farm that he owns in the North-West province.
Veterinary personnel are also on the ground trying to curb further spread.
All these outbreaks, according to the MEC, are a continuation of an outbreak that was first reported in March this year which started in the North West.
Around April, provincial authorities reported three suspected cases of FMD following the movement of infected animals from Limpopo province to Gauteng, the North-West and subsequently to the Free State.
The outbreak was eventually contained a few weeks later.
Nxangisa urged farmers and the farming community at large to refrain from moving animals and buying animals from auctions.
He said farmers should remain vigilant and report to state veterinarians any signs and symptoms that may be suspicious.
FMD is a state-controlled viral disease mostly affecting cattle, sheep, goats and pigs.
Infected animals are characterised by development of fluid-filled vesicles and erosions on the mouth and feet of the animals. – Staff Reporter