TZANEEN – On Friday, November 12, the Foot and Mouth Disease infection spread to the village of Taulome in the Greater Letaba Municipality. The village is situated about 40km to the north of Tzaneen.

Two herds have been identified as being infected. The surrounding area was at that stage being vaccinated for a third time.

In order to stabilize the situation, road blocks have been deployed around the area. The current levels of immunity of the cattle population should ensure that there is no major rapid spread of the disease in the area. The infection at Makosha near Giyani two weeks ago has shown no further spread in this area. Currently, there are 43 head of infected cattle in a quarantine camp in the area.

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 the State Veterinary Services).

The public are 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.