Lady Frere Farmers Briefed on Foot-and-Mouth Disease Risks

Emalahleni Municipality Educates Farmers on Foot-and-Mouth Disease at Lady Frere Meeting

LADY FRERE | CACADU – Emalahleni Local Municipality, together with the Department of Agriculture, held an important livestock health awareness meeting today with local farmers in Cacadu, (Lady Frere), focusing on the prevention and control of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD).

The meeting took place at the local Department of Agriculture offices and formed part of ongoing efforts to educate livestock owners about the serious risks posed by FMD, a highly contagious viral disease that affects cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, sheep, goats and pigs.

Municipal officials and agricultural representatives explained that Foot-and-Mouth Disease spreads rapidly and can be transmitted through direct contact between animals, contaminated clothing, equipment, animal products such as milk and meat, and even food packaging. Farmers were warned that the virus can survive on clothing and footwear, making biosecurity practices critical when moving between farms or handling livestock.

Understanding the disease

During the session, farmers were informed that the incubation period of FMD ranges from two to 14 days before visible symptoms appear. Once infected, animals may show signs such as excessive salivation, difficulty eating, wounds in the mouth, lameness, and reduced appetite. These symptoms lead to weight loss, decreased milk production and overall reduced productivity.

Officials emphasised that while the disease is not primarily a threat to human health, its impact on livestock production is severe. Outbreaks of FMD can result in major economic losses, restrictions on livestock movement, and a decline in trade both locally and internationally. Farmers were reminded that when outbreaks occur, the sale and movement of livestock may be restricted by authorities to contain the spread.

Prevention measures highlighted

A strong focus of the meeting was on prevention. Farmers were urged to take practical steps to protect their animals, including:

• Preventing livestock from mixing with animals from other farms.

• Washing hands thoroughly after working with animals.

• Removing and washing clothing and footwear used when handling livestock.

• Isolating newly purchased or introduced animals for at least 28 days before allowing contact with existing livestock.

• Regularly inspecting animals for early signs of illness.

• Reporting suspected cases immediately to local animal health technicians or veterinary officials.

It was also explained that treatment and control measures for Foot-and-Mouth Disease are managed by government veterinary services, and early reporting is essential to ensure a rapid response.

Farmers pledge cooperation

Local farmers attended the meeting in good numbers and actively engaged with officials. Many welcomed the information session, noting that better understanding of the disease would help protect their livelihoods and the wider agricultural economy in the Emalahleni area.

At the conclusion of the meeting, farmers pledged to apply the prevention measures discussed and to work closely with agricultural authorities to help stop the spread of the disease. Officials said continued cooperation between farmers, municipalities and veterinary services remains critical to safeguarding livestock in the region.

The municipality indicated that similar awareness programmes will continue across rural areas to ensure that farmers remain informed and vigilant against livestock diseases that threaten food security and economic stability.