South Africa faces cattle epidemic due to foot and mouth disease

South Africa is facing a significant cattle epidemic driven by foot and mouth disease (FMD). The disease is frequently carried by buffaloes in the Kruger National Park, which can infect cattle located near the park's borders.

Historically, the Department of Agriculture managed the risk by maintaining a protection zone around the park, allowing much of the country to remain FMD-free. However, the breakdown of this protection zone system around 2019 has contributed to the current crisis. A 2022 report commissioned by the Minister of Agriculture described South African animal biosecurity as being “in a crisis”.

Challenges in containment include the state's limited capacity to quarantine infected herds or provide vaccinations. The virus spreads easily through various vectors, including wildlife like mongooses, human contact, vehicle tires, and potentially through fog or birds.