Beitbridge livestock under siege

The Department of Veterinary Services has intensified efforts to contain the spread of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) in Beitbridge District, where 42,944 animals had been vaccinated by Monday evening.

District head Dr Rutendo Mwaramba told stakeholders during the Beitbridge Rural District Council full council meeting on Tuesday that authorities had imposed strict livestock movement controls, restricting animals from being moved from infected zones to disease-free areas.

"The disease was first detected in Beitbridge West constituency, but cases have now concentrated in Beitbridge East," Dr Mwaramba said. "As of the end of last week we had received 400 cases and we continue to get new reports daily. We have quarantined cattle, goats, pigs and sheep in the affected areas."

She said surveillance had been stepped up, with veterinary officers conducting inspections and testing to detect symptoms of the disease. A second round of vaccinations is scheduled after 28 days.

Beitbridge East remains the hardest hit, with areas such as Swereki in Beitbridge West also recording new infections.

Since the outbreak, the Veterinary Department has partnered with other stakeholders to carry out public awareness campaigns to educate farmers on FMD prevention and control measures.

Symptoms of the disease include fluid-filled blisters on the mouth, tongue, lips and feet; excessive salivation; lameness; loss of appetite; fever; and weight loss. In severe cases, ruptured blisters can lead to secondary infections, further weakening affected animals.

Authorities have emphasised that containing FMD is critical to safeguarding the livestock industry and ensuring food security in the region.