Suspect serological positive foot and mouth disease results in the northern part of KwaZulu-Natal
28 Feb 2011
The Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) has picked up some suspect positive serological results for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) in the northern part of KwaZulu-Natal during routine surveillance in the protection zone for the disease.
Even though no clinical symptoms for the disease have been seen to date, the Department is continuing to conduct intensive investigations. Some reactors were picked up in the free area of the disease.
FMD is a severe, highly contagious viral disease which affects livestock with significant economic impact. The disease affects cattle and swine as well as sheep, goats, and other cloven hoofed animals. The disease does not affect human beings.
Over 600 animals have been tested, and 50% of them were found to be positive. Government wishes to convey the message that the situation is under control, and that there is no need to panic.