Gouda: The Western Cape Veterinary Services has placed a property in Gouda under quarantine after a farmer in the Free State reported suspected foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) lesions in cattle recently transported from the area on Saturday, 1 November 2025. During an inspection, the Western Cape Department of Agriculture said veterinarians observed suspected lesions in the animals’ mouths.

According to South African Government News Agency, samples have been collected and sent for laboratory testing to confirm or rule out FMD. In addition, two properties located in the Velddrif and Bredasdorp areas, from which cattle were moved on 30 October 2025, have been placed under quarantine and will undergo inspection. ‘The origin of the potentially infected cattle is still being verified. The transport company responsible for moving the animals is under investigation, and all properties linked to this company over the past 30 days will be contacted and inspected.’

The provincial government stated that FMD is a controlled animal disease in South Africa, and any suspicion must be reported immediately to a state veterinarian. FMD is highly contagious and spreads through direct contact between infected animals, as well as via contaminated vehicles, equipment, feed, and clothing. The disease affects cloven-hoofed animals like cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs, causing painful sores in their mouths and on their feet. The disease does not affect humans.

To prevent the spread of FMD, the department emphasized that farm biosecurity measures must be implemented and maintained. Additionally, all cloven-hoofed animals must be transported with a health declaration and a declaration stating that they will be kept in isolation at the destination for 28 days. The department announced that all movements of livestock into and within the Western Cape must be reported via the online form.