LIMPOPO – Just more than three weeks ago the latest outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease was detected on October 18 during a routine weekly inspection at Makosha.

Since then, the surrounding areas have been thoroughly vaccinated for a third time. All infected cattle have been placed in a quarantine camp constructed in the area to prevent the possible spread to neighbouring communities. There are currently 40 cattle in the camp. Makosha is situated in the angle between the Nsami Dam and the Mangombe Nature Reserve, just northeast of Giyani.

The entire quarantine area has been vaccinated now for the third time to strengthen the immunity of the cattle. Up to Friday, November 5, the field staff of animal health technicians of the Department of Agriculture had vaccinated 69 330 cattle in this round of vaccinations. This is a remarkable achievement.

The public is reminded that the movement of all cloven-hoofed animals (including game), their products (carcasses, meat, dairy products, skins and hides, manure, etc) and grass and hay is restricted. All of these animals or items mentioned can be confiscated if the owner is not in possession of adequate documentation or a Veterinary Movement Permit (as required by Veterinary Services).

The public is thanked for their patience during the campaign, especially at the road blocks. Any enquiries can be directed to the Foot and Mouth Control Centre at Tel (015) 318 4331. Permits for movement outside of the declared surveillance area can be obtained during office hours from any of the state veterinary offices, including Louis Trichardt at (015) 516 4972 or Sibasa at (015) 963 1031.