AGRICULTURE NEWS - A special Information session on a new vision for foot and mouth disease in South Africa was held on 5 April, in Bothaville under the auspices of the Red Meat and Livestock Primary Cluster (Red Meat Producers’ Organisation), SA Feedlot Association, National Emergent Red Meat Producers’ Organisation (NERPO) and the Red Meat Abattoir Association.
The objective was to get input from industry role players, government, veterinary practitioners, feedlot owners, auctioneers and farmers on a way forward regarding foot and mouth disease.
The event was attended by 315 individuals and it is a clear indication that foot and mouth disease is a priority for all role players.
Engagement and discussions were constructive. It was concluded that a document can be compiled by the Red Meat Industry Services (RMIS) and the National Animal Health Forum within the next 72 hours.
Input from a representative of the OIE (International Organisation for Animal Health) will also be given.
All outbreaks of the FMD originated from the controlled endemic area of Limpopo.
There was a proposal that a ban can be placed on auctions in the province, Dr. Mpho Maja, Director: Animal Health categorically stated that this is not a viable solution and it is not advisable, because it will have a huge influence on the livestock industry.
It was advised that the transportation of animals should be kept to a minimum and only out of necessity. The powers given to veterinary services in terms of Act 35, should be enforced in the transportation of suspected animals, and also in instances of the outbreak of any state-controlled diseases.
The meeting condemned the contravention of the Animal Health Act and pleaded with the National Department of Animal Health to act with the full might of the law against those individuals illegally transports animals out of a controlled area, and/or the selling of these animals.
The industry is adamant that the responsibility towards securing a safe livestock industry is shared between the government and livestock owners; thereby livestock owners should as a matter of urgency self-regulate.
Traceability has now reached a point of being non-negotiable.
Livestock owners are encouraged to adhere to basic herd health protocols and when purchasing new animals, the health status of the animals should be determined.
If animal health is not guaranteed, animals must be kept in quarantine and separate from other animals for the prescribed periods as stated by the legislation.
Another proposal was tabled that a foot-and-mouth disease free status with vaccination and also feedlots should be vaccinated.
Dr Maja opposed the proposal of haphazard vaccination and said it will have a huge influence on export opportunities.
Faster decision-making is crucial and private/public partnerships (PPP’s) are of utmost importance.
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