EASTERN CAPE – Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) has been confirmed in kudu at Addo Elephant National Park (AENP) after follow-up tests returned positive, prompting strengthened biosecurity measures to limit the spread of the virus.
South African National Parks (SANParks), working with the Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture, confirmed the results after wildlife health surveillance detected an increase in lameness among kudu in the park.
SANParks said although initial tests were negative, a second round of diagnostic testing confirmed the presence of the disease in the sampled animals.
It said no other wildlife species in the park were currently showing clinical signs consistent with FMD.
The positive results confirm the presence of the virus in the affected kudu but do not establish the source of infection or whether it is linked to other outbreaks in the Eastern Cape. This is being investigated by veterinary authorities.
Biosecurity measures strengthened
SANParks said it has increased biosecurity measures, including disinfecting vehicles before they leave designated game-viewing areas and limiting the potential movement of infectious material beyond affected or controlled areas.
No cloven-hoofed animals may enter or leave the park without authorisation from the relevant veterinary authority following a risk assessment. Any future movement of susceptible animals will be subject to veterinary approval and applicable disease-control requirements.
The park is also communicating with neighbouring landowners, livestock producers and other stakeholders to coordinate precautionary measures.
Tourism operations remain open
SANParks said FMD does not pose a risk to human health and that tourism operations at the park remain open.
Visitors are urged to follow all access, movement and biosecurity instructions issued by park officials.
SANParks said it would continue monitoring affected kudu, other susceptible wildlife and potential disease-transmission pathways in cooperation with veterinary authorities.
It said further updates will be issued as verified information becomes available.
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