Horsesickness in Eastern Cape

A number of African HorseSickness (AHS) outbreaks have been reported in the Eastern Cape, according the Department of Agriculture. Most are still confined to areas of the Cacadu District Municipality, but there’s also been a report from the Amathole District Municipality.
Laboratory tests and results confirmed these are new strains in the area – strains 6, 7 and 9. To prevent further spread of the disease in the province and to protect the AHS-free area in the Western Cape, all movement of horses into, out of and within the province will be subject to an official permit issued by a state veterinarian.
Information about the disease and what to do if a case is suspected case as are available from your nearest state veterinary office, as are current updates.
Horse owners are urged to ensure horses are vaccinated annually as prescribed by the Animal Diseases Act 35 of 1984, and all suspected AHS cases are immediately reported. – Roelof Bezuidenhout
Contact the Animal Diseases Surveillance Unit on 082 522 2322.