By The spread of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) in the Free State province has been successfully contained, through strict vaccination measures and movement restrictions.
The Free State Department of Agriculture and Rural Development confirmed on Wednesday, 30 July 2025, that is has managed to contain the spread of FMD and has successfully vaccinated cattle infected by the disease.
Farmers are relieved at the news. According to the department, Kroonstad and Deneysville were the most affected areas and all cattle that were affected have been successfully vaccinated on the farms.
The Spokesperson for the department Ms Moliehi Moeng says though the department has had success in this regard, surveillance activities remain on-going in both municipalities to determine the possible extent of the spread. She says the department is pleased to report that, to date, no additional clinical cases of FMD have been identified through the department’s active surveillance efforts.
“The first round of surveillance linked to the Kroonstad outbreak has been completed, and the second round is now underway. This is in line with our precautionary approach to ensure the situation remains under control. The department remains committed to transparent communication and will continue to keep all stakeholders informed as further developments unfold,” said Moeng.
The department has since urged all farmers, auctioneers, and speculators to:
Restrict movement of cloven-hoofed animals.
Adhere strictly to biosecurity measures, including disinfections of vehicles and equipment.
Quarantine any livestock for 28 days before introduction to existing herds.
Keep accurate records of all animal movements and visitors to farms.
Report any suspect cases (including animals showing excessive salivation, mouth lesions, or lameness) immediately to the local State Veterinary Office.
