GQEBERHA – Investigations into increasing cases of lameness among kudu at the Addo Elephant National Park in the Eastern Cape are continuing.

Following these cases and an ongoing Foot-and-Mouth Disease outbreak in the province, the State Veterinary Department was notified, said JP Louw, spokesperson for the South African National Parks.

Samples were collected from affected animals for testing and have since tested negative for Foot-and-Mouth Disease.

Louw said that earlier this month, as part of strengthened biosecurity protocols, all vehicles entering the park undergo mandatory spraying to reduce the risk of introducing Foot-and-Mouth Disease and safeguard the park’s wildlife and ecological integrity.

Veterinary authorities continue to investigate the underlying cause of the lameness.

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