How to respond when Foot-and-Mouth Disease hits your Herd

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a serious and highly contagious viral disease that spreads quickly among cloven-hoofed animals. 

As South Africa battles one of its worst outbreaks in years, government has classified FMD as a national disaster and is rolling out an urgent vaccination campaign to protect the country’s livestock and agricultural economy.

If you are a farmer, knowing what to do can protect your animals – and your livelihood.

Act fast if you see the signs 

If you notice any symptoms of FMD in your cattle, immediately contact your local Animal Health Technician or State Veterinarian. Early reporting is critical to preventing further spread.

Animals showing signs of the disease may develop blisters and painful sores in the mouth – on the gums, lips and tongue – making it difficult to eat and often causing excessive drooling.

Blisters can also appear between the toes and where the hooves meet the skin, causing lameness. In severe cases, animals may even lose their hooves. 

Dairy cows may develop sores on their teats, leading to a sudden drop in milk production.

Limit movement and prevent spread

If FMD is confirmed, animals and animal products may not be moved without a permit from the Provincial Veterinary Office. The virus is found in saliva, urine, faeces, milk and even in the air exhaled by infected animals. 

It spreads through contaminated feed, shared grazing areas and unclean clothing, shoes, hands and vehicle tyres.

Understand why it matters

FMD has serious economic consequences. Sick animals lose weight, produce less milk and young calves may die. 

Outbreaks result in export bans and trade restrictions, affecting the entire agricultural sector.

Delivering the 2026 State of the Nation Address at the Cape Town City Hall recently, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that government will vaccinate at least 14 million cattle, requiring 28 million doses over the next 12 months.

Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen has confirmed that local vaccine production has resumed, while a national task team will monitor progress monthly.

If you suspect Foot-and-Mouth Disease, do not delay — report it immediately to your nearest State Veterinarian and visit www.nda.gov.za for more information. 

This information was supplied by the Department of Agriculture, additional reporting www.sanews.gov.za