Foot-and-Mouth Disease Confirmed in Kudu at Eastern Cape’s Addo Elephant National Park.

EASTERN CAPE – South African National Parks (SANParks) has confirmed that a kudu at Addo Elephant National Park has tested positive for Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) following a second round of diagnostic testing.

The discovery followed increased lameness among kudus in the park. Initial tests were negative, but further investigations confirmed the presence of the virus.

SANParks said the source of the infection remains unknown, and the positive result does not establish a link to other FMD outbreaks in the Eastern Cape.

No other wildlife species in the park are currently showing clinical signs of the disease.

Biosecurity measures have been strengthened, including vehicle disinfection and restrictions on the movement of cloven-hoofed animals into and out of the park without veterinary authorisation.

SANParks is working with the Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture to monitor the situation and prevent further spread.

The park remains open to visitors, and SANParks has reassured the public that FMD is not considered a human health risk.

Further updates will be issued as verified information becomes available.