African Horse Sickness - Veterinary Control Measures Relaxed | Western Cape Government

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African Horse Sickness - Veterinary Control Measures Relaxed

17 June 2014

With reference to Veterinary Notices issued on 10 March and 2 April 2014 which instituted veterinary control measures in the Porterville and Piketberg area declared in terms of the Animal Diseases Act, 1984 (Act 35 of 1984) and allied legislation. Also with reference to situation reports demarcating additional areas where movement control of equines was established in the Piketberg and Tulbagh regions (23rd May 2014), and the Robertson region (2nd May 2014) of the Western Cape Province.

The last confirmed case of African Horse Sickness in the Porterville/Wellington and surrounds area was the 6th May 2014, while the last confirmed case in the Robertson area was on 21st May 2014. This, in conjunction with the present time of year that is not normally associated with the successful transmission of African Horse Sickness, as well as the recent spate of cold weather, snow and heavy frost in the regions affected by the outbreak, it has been decided to relax the veterinary control measures detailed in the relevant veterinary notices and situation reports. This will be of immediate effect. The normal movement requirements of equines into, within, out of and through the various African Horse Sickness zones in South Africa, remains as normal.

Please note that some properties affected by the outbreak, may still be under quarantine by the regional State Veterinarian, and all movements onto or off these properties must be requested through the regional State Veterinarian.

The cooperation given by owners of affected properties within the previously restricted areas is greatly appreciated, and the Western Cape Department of Agriculture remains dedicated to the control of African Horse Sickness within South Africa.

Media Enquiries: 

Wouter Kriel
Spokesperson for Minister Winde
Tel: 021 483 4700
E-mail: Wouter.Kriel@westerncape.com