Gauteng Reports 96.9% Decline in Foot-and-Mouth Disease Outbreaks as Livestock Vaccination Campaign Advances

Gauteng is making significant progress in its efforts to control Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD), with newly reported outbreaks declining by 96.9% and no new outbreaks recorded during September. The province has also made substantial progress with its livestock vaccination campaign, with 603,055 animals vaccinated in 2026 and 92% of the provincial herd vaccinated so far. These developments mark an important step in protecting cattle and other susceptible livestock, supporting farmers and reducing the impact of the disease on agricultural production. However, the progress does not mean the risk has disappeared, particularly as the festive season approaches and livestock movements may increase. Continued vaccination, strict biosecurity and cooperation between farmers and veterinary authorities remain essential to maintaining control over FMD and protecting Gauteng’s agricultural sector.

The decline in newly reported outbreaks highlights the importance of coordinated disease control measures. Foot-and-Mouth Disease is a highly contagious viral disease that affects cloven-hoofed animals, including cattle, pigs, sheep and goats. It can cause fever, blisters and lesions around the mouth and feet, leading to discomfort, lameness and reduced productivity. Infected animals may eat less, while dairy cattle can experience a decline in milk production. Outbreaks can also lead to movement restrictions, disrupted livestock sales and additional costs for farmers. Reducing the number of new outbreaks can therefore help protect animal health and limit the wider economic consequences of the disease.

The reported 96.9% decline in newly reported outbreaks is an encouraging development for livestock producers across Gauteng. The absence of new outbreaks during September provides further evidence of progress in the province’s disease control efforts during that period. However, these figures should not be interpreted as proof that FMD has been eliminated. Existing infections, animals exposed before an outbreak is detected and possible introductions from other areas can continue to present risks. Veterinary surveillance and timely reporting remain important for identifying potential cases and responding before the disease spreads further. Farmers should continue to follow official guidance and avoid relaxing biosecurity measures simply because fewer outbreaks are being reported.

Vaccination remains a central part of Gauteng’s FMD control strategy. During 2026, a total of 603,055 animals have been vaccinated, with 92% of the provincial herd vaccinated so far, according to the reported figures. This level of coverage represents substantial progress towards protecting livestock across the province. Vaccination helps prepare animals to resist infection and can reduce the impact and spread of disease when used as part of a coordinated control programme. However, the effectiveness of a vaccination campaign depends on factors such as the vaccine used, the vaccination schedule and the animals’ vaccination history. Farmers should therefore work with veterinary officials to ensure that their herds receive the appropriate vaccinations and any required booster doses.

The remaining vaccination work is also important. A reported coverage rate of 92% means that some animals have yet to be vaccinated, based on the provincial herd estimate used in the announcement. These animals may include livestock that were not available during earlier vaccination visits or herds that still require attention under the programme. Veterinary authorities and farmers need to identify any outstanding vaccination requirements and arrange appropriate follow-up. Farmers should keep accurate records of vaccinations, including dates and the animals covered, to support herd management and veterinary monitoring. Completing the required vaccination programme can help strengthen protection across the wider livestock population.

As the festive season approaches, booster vaccinations remain an important consideration in maintaining FMD control. The timing and need for booster doses depend on the vaccination programme and the instructions provided by veterinary authorities. Farmers should not assume that every animal requires a booster on the same date or at the same interval. Instead, they should confirm the correct schedule with their state veterinarian and ensure that eligible animals receive the required doses. Booster vaccinations can help maintain protection where recommended, but they do not replace other disease prevention measures. Maintaining good biosecurity and complying with livestock movement controls remain necessary even in herds with high vaccination coverage.

The festive season can create additional challenges for livestock disease management because animals may be moved between farms, markets and other destinations. Transport vehicles, handling facilities and contact between animals from different properties can increase opportunities for disease transmission if appropriate precautions are not followed. Farmers should check the applicable movement requirements before transporting cattle or other susceptible livestock. They should also ensure that required permits and supporting documentation are in place and that vehicles and equipment meet relevant cleaning and disinfection requirements. Unnecessary movement should be avoided where it could increase disease risks or breach official restrictions. Careful planning can help farmers protect their herds while meeting legitimate commercial and operational needs.

Biosecurity remains essential regardless of vaccination status. Farmers should monitor their livestock for unusual symptoms, including fever, excessive salivation, mouth lesions and lameness. Any suspicion of FMD should be reported promptly to the relevant state veterinarian or animal health authority. Farmers should avoid moving potentially infected animals and follow official instructions while a suspected case is assessed. Limiting unnecessary visitors to livestock areas and managing the movement of people, vehicles and equipment can also reduce the risk of introducing disease onto a farm. These practical steps help protect healthy animals and support faster veterinary responses when concerns arise.

The impact of FMD extends beyond animal health and can affect the financial stability of farming businesses. Outbreaks may result in restrictions on livestock movement, delays in sales and disruptions to supply chains. These challenges can affect cattle producers, livestock traders, transport operators and other businesses that depend on regular animal movements. Farmers may also face additional expenses associated with disease management, veterinary care and the protection of unaffected animals. Effective disease control can help reduce these pressures and support greater stability across the livestock sector. Maintaining progress in Gauteng is therefore important not only for individual farmers but also for the broader agricultural economy and the supply of animal products.

Food security is another important reason to sustain the province’s FMD control efforts. Healthy livestock contribute to the production of meat, milk and other animal products that support household nutrition and agricultural businesses. When disease disrupts production or distribution, the effects can extend through the food supply chain. Protecting animal health helps maintain productive capacity and reduces the risk of avoidable losses. However, food security also depends on effective transport, processing, market access and the affordability of food for consumers. Continued cooperation between government, veterinary services and farmers can help protect livestock production while supporting the wider food system.

Gauteng’s reported progress, including a 96.9% decline in newly reported FMD outbreaks, no new outbreaks during September and vaccination of 603,055 animals in 2026, provides encouraging signs for the province’s livestock industry. With 92% of the provincial herd vaccinated, the campaign has reached a substantial level of coverage, but continued attention is needed to address outstanding vaccination requirements and maintain protection. As the festive season approaches, farmers should prioritise recommended booster doses, monitor their animals and comply with all applicable movement controls. Strong biosecurity and prompt reporting of suspected cases remain essential to preventing further spread. Sustained cooperation between livestock owners and veterinary authorities will help protect animal health, support farmers’ livelihoods and strengthen food security across Gauteng.

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