The Free State Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has confirmed two additional cases of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in Viljoenskroon (Moqhaka), with a possible third case awaiting laboratory results.
By Maile Matsimela, Digital Editor at African Farming
Disease Location and Spread
The department said one of the confirmed cases has been identified on a commercial farm, whilst the second case is located on a communal grazing area alongside the border of North West Province. The department is currently monitoring a potential third case pending the outcome of laboratory testing.
Quarantine and Movement Restrictions
In response to these confirmations, movement restrictions have been implemented on all farms within a 10-kilometre radius of the infected properties. The infected farms and communal areas have been placed under quarantine, with all farms within this radius notified and placed under precautionary quarantine until surveillance activities are completed to determine any further spread of the disease.
Also read: FMD: Concerns about movement that ‘drives spread’
Vaccination and Control Measures
The department says it has prioritised vaccination of the infected farms and communal areas as part of its containment strategy. Rapid vaccination of exposed animals has been implemented to assist in reducing the viral load and limiting further circulation of the virus throughout the affected areas.
Ongoing Surveillance Activities
Surveillance activities continue across neighbouring farms in both Moqhaka and Metsimaholo Municipalities as authorities work to determine the possible extent of the disease’s spread. The department has committed to maintaining transparent communication and will continue keeping all stakeholders informed as further developments unfold.
Also read: Free State updates farmers on FMD disease management
Farmer Guidelines and Legal Requirements
In accordance with Government Gazette No. 51512 of 13 June 2025 and the Animal Diseases Act (Act 35 of 1984), the department is urging all farmers, auctioneers and speculators to implement strict preventative measures.
These measures include restricting the movement of cloven-hoofed animals and adhering strictly to biosecurity protocols, including disinfection of vehicles and equipment. Farmers are advised to quarantine any newly purchased livestock for 28 days before integration with existing herds and maintain accurate records of all animal movements, feed trucks and visitors to farms.
Also read: Foot-and-mouth outbreak confirmed near Kroonstad, Free State
Reporting Suspect Cases
The department emphasises the importance of reporting any suspect cases immediately to the local State Veterinary Office. Suspect cases include animals showing excessive salivation, mouth lesions or difficulty walking.
“We can only contain the spread of the disease if we work together,” the department stated. “The FMD virus cannot move on its own – movement of animals and/or infected trucks help spread the virus.”
Contact Information
The department has expressed appreciation for cooperation in protecting the livestock industry of the Free State as containment efforts continue. For veterinary services enquiries, contact Dr. Jurgens Barnard, Acting Director of Veterinary Services, at 066 025 2229 or jbfsvet@gmail.com.
