South Africa is progressing with a large-scale foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) vaccination campaign, distributing millions of doses to curb the spread of the virus. The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) has confirmed the use of vaccines from various international manufacturers as part of the control strategy.
Veterinary experts and industry bodies consistently stress that vaccination is only one component of an effective control program. They emphasize that strict biosecurity measures on farms, including controlled movement of animals and people, remain critically important to prevent new outbreaks. Responsible farming practices are seen as essential for the program's long-term success.
The current vaccination efforts are focused on known infected zones and high-risk areas. Authorities continue to monitor the situation, and the expansion of the program is a key part of the national strategy to manage FMD, protect the livestock industry, and work towards regaining South Africa's FMD-free status without vaccination.
