Important facts you should know about foot and mouth disease

27 November 2019
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Senwes-110 foot-and-mouth

Foot and mouth disease is a serious disease that spreads easily. It is caused by the virus that is found in all body fluids such as saliva, urine, faeces and milk. Animals get this disease when eating or breathing in the virus from these body fluids. People can also spread the virus by unclean clothing, shoes, hands and car tyres. It affects mainly cattle, pigs, goats, sheep and other cloven-hooved animals, including wildlife such as buffalo and antelope.

It is a trade sensitive disease and has a severe negative impact on the economy of the country. It is a controlled disease in terms of the Animal Diseases Act 1984, (Act No. 35 of 1984). Though it does not kill affected animals, owners lose money due to a sudden drop in production.

Facts about foot and mouth disease

Facts about foot and mouth disease

November 2019

Important facts you should know about foot and mouth disease from the Department of Agriculture, forestry and fisheries.

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Signs of foot and mouth disease

Signs of foot and mouth disease

November 2019

Read more about the signs of this disease and where the disease occur.

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Feel free to contact your nearest state / private veterinarian / animal health technician for further information or the Animal Health Division.
Tel.: +27 12 319 7456
Fax: +27 12 329 7218
E-mail: Epidemiology@daff.gov.za
Website: www.daff.gov.za