Over 42 000 animals vaccinated as foot-and-mouth spreads in Beitbridge

Thupeyo Muleya, Beitbridge Bureau

THE Department of Veterinary Services (DVS) has intensified efforts to contain and prevent the spread of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) in Beitbridge District, where over 42 900 animals had been vaccinated by Monday evening.

Recent outbreaks have prompted authorities to tighten controls on livestock movement and accelerate vaccination campaigns to safeguard the livestock industry and protect food security.

Presenting a report during the Beitbridge Rural District Council full council meeting on Tuesday, District Veterinary Services head Dr Rutendo Mwaramba said strict restrictions had been imposed on the movement of animals from infected zones to disease-free areas.

She noted that the disease, initially detected in Beitbridge West constituency, has since spread to Beitbridge East, where the majority of new cases are now being recorded.

“As of the end of last week, we had received 400 cases and continue to receive reports daily. Animals in Beitbridge East are the worst affected, although new cases are still emerging in parts of Beitbridge West such as Swereki,” she said.

Dr Mwaramba added that veterinary teams were conducting a comprehensive vaccination programme targeting cattle, goats, pigs and sheep.

“As of 29 September, we had vaccinated 42 944 animals, and we expect to carry out another round after 28 days,” she said.

She urged farmers to remain vigilant, report suspected cases promptly and comply with movement restrictions to prevent further spread.

In addition to vaccination, veterinary officers are conducting regular inspections, testing and enhanced surveillance to monitor livestock health and detect any new signs of the disease. Quarantine measures have been enforced in hotspot areas to contain the outbreak.

Since the onset of the outbreak, the DVS, in collaboration with other stakeholders, has also intensified public awareness campaigns, educating farmers and communities on recognising symptoms and implementing control measures.

FMD is a highly contagious viral disease characterised by fluid-filled blisters on the mouth, tongue, lips and feet. Infected animals may exhibit lameness, stiffness, excessive salivation, loss of appetite, reduced productivity, weight loss and fever. Ruptured blisters can lead to secondary infections, further worsening the condition.