WC's FMD cases stable, with plan to bolster herd immunity: Winde

The Western Cape government has revealed that the foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreak has stabilised, with no new cases reported in the province in the last 39 days.

Premier Alan Winde said that almost 165,000 vaccines have been administered so far.

He said an additional 150,000 doses will be received in the coming days, to further strengthen provincial herd immunity.

“We continue to administer vaccines across the province. We will continue working with our private vets, the Department of Agriculture, and all role players across the province to make sure we keep diminishing this risk to our economy and the agricultural system as a whole,” said Winde.

The premier added its 21-point plan to eradicate the FMD is working, which includes provincial border control and monitoring.

He also urges all livestock owners to continue playing their part in fighting the outbreak.

“For me, what stands out is the now over 37 days since we’ve had a recorded outbreak in our province. It means that our 21-point plan is working, will continue to be applied and where the risks are the highest in our province,” said Winde.