CAPE TOWN – Agricultural organisations have warned that the Western Cape’s foot-and-mouth disease outbreak remains a serious threat, with vaccine stocks expected to run out within two weeks.

Agri Western Cape and RPO Western Cape confirmed that 13 cases have been verified out of 30 open or suspected cases across the province. Hotspot areas include the Garden Route, West Coast, Cape Winelands (Drakenstein), and the City of Cape Town.

More than 15 000 animals have been vaccinated to date, representing approximately 33% of the Western Cape herd. The organisations noted that this leaves the province vulnerable to further spread, and warned that vaccination is a preventative measure rather than a guarantee against infection.

The impending vaccine shortage presents a significant challenge. Any new outbreak during this period will complicate containment efforts, according to feedback from the Department of Agriculture’s Veterinary Services.

District reports show the Garden Route currently has seven affected farms, with further test results pending. The West Coast has recorded four positive farms and has established nine checkpoints. The Cape Winelands situation remains stable.

In the City of Cape Town, vaccinations in informal areas have been completed, with 24/7 checkpoints now in place. The Overberg and Central Karoo have not reported any cases.

ALSO READ: Western Cape authorities confirm containment of Foot-and-Mouth disease in province

Abattoir capacity also remains limited, with only two facilities indicating willingness to handle foot-and-mouth disease-related slaughter, subject to the necessary approvals.

With the Easter weekend approaching, the agricultural organisations have appealed to producers to report all suspected cases immediately, maintain strict biosecurity measures, and remain aware that handling and slaughter of infected animals pose risks of further spread.

ALSO READ: Western Cape sets aside R100 million for foot-and-mouth vaccines

Agri Western Cape said that this is no time for complacency, particularly with increased movement expected over the long weekend.

ALSO READ: Steenhuisen unveils 10-year strategy to combat devastating foot-and-mouth crisis