Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) continues to pose a serious threat to livestock farmers across South Africa – bringing not only animal health challenges but also financial pressure and emotional strain. For 21-year-old livestock farmer Euphros Rametsi, based in Winterveld north of Pretoria, the reality of an outbreak became personal – and required immediate, hands-on intervention to protect his animals.
By Talitha Janse van Vuuren, multimedia editor at African Farming
Early Signs and Quick Response
Rametsi first realised something was wrong when the animals began showing unusual behaviour.
“The first time I saw something was wrong, they couldn’t walk properly,” he recalls.
The signs were clear indicators that something more serious was affecting the livestock. Lameness, discomfort and visible issues around the hooves raised concern and required urgent attention.
Recognising the risk of the disease spreading, Rametsi and his family acted quickly.
“We isolated the ones that had it,” he says.
This immediate isolation of affected animals from the rest of the herd became one of the most critical steps in managing the outbreak. By separating infected livestock early, they were able to reduce the risk of transmission and protect the rest of the animals on the farm.
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Managing the Outbreak On the Farm
Once the affected animals had been identified and isolated, the focus shifted to treatment and ongoing care.
Rametsi explains that they used a combination of approaches to manage the situation, including both topical applications and medication. Treatments were applied carefully and the animals were monitored closely to track their progress.
The process required consistency, attention to detail and a willingness to act quickly as conditions changed.
Despite the seriousness of the disease, the results were encouraging.
“They are still surviving now – they are recovering,” he says.
Importantly, the farm did not suffer any losses – a significant outcome given the impact FMD can have if not managed effectively.
The Emotional and Financial Toll
Although the technical response proved successful, the experience was not without its challenges.
For farmers, livestock represents more than just production – it reflects time, investment and long-term effort. Facing the possibility of losing animals to disease can be deeply stressful.
“I was sad for about a week,” Rametsi says.
In addition to the emotional strain, the outbreak also brought financial pressure. Unplanned costs such as treatment, medication and additional care can place a heavy burden on farming operations, particularly for young or developing farmers.
Also read: Biosecurity and economic survival as dual pillars in foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) control
Key Lessons from the Experience
The experience reinforced several important lessons that extend beyond a single farm and are relevant to livestock producers across the country.
- Early detection is critical: Recognising symptoms quickly allows for faster intervention and reduces the risk of widespread infection.
- Isolation limits the spread: Separating affected animals immediately can prevent further transmission within the herd.
- Consistent monitoring matters: Regularly checking livestock makes it easier to identify problems before they escalate.
- Preparedness is essential: Having knowledge, access to treatment and a plan in place can significantly influence outcomes.
A Practical Reminder for Livestock Farmers
As FMD continues to affect different regions in South Africa, Rametsi’s experience highlights both the risks and the importance of proactive management.
Although disease outbreaks cannot always be prevented, the way they are handled can determine their overall impact.
Through quick decision-making, careful management and close observation, Rametsi was able to navigate a difficult situation and protect his livestock.
His experience serves as a practical reminder that, even under pressure, informed action can help farmers minimise losses and continue moving forwards.
Also read:
At 21, Euphros Rametsi is building a future in livestock farming
‘You don’t just wake up and become a farmer’ – lessons from a young livestock producer
FMD awareness | What consumers and farmers need to know about meat safety
FMD awareness | How foot-and-mouth disease spreads
