A kudu in Addo Elephant National Park (AENP) has tested positive for Foot-and-Mouth Disease following a second round of diagnostic testing on samples collected from the animal.
This is according to South African National Parks (SANParks), which is working in coordination with the Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture.
“The finding must be understood in the context of the broader FMD situation in the Eastern Cape. The positive result in kudu confirms the presence of the virus in the sampled animals, but does not, on its own, establish the source of infection, the direction of transmission, or a link between AENP and any other outbreak in the province,” SANParks said in a statement on Monday.
The Department of Agriculture was notified after SANParks’ wildlife health surveillance detected increased lameness among kudus.
“Although the initial tests were negative, a follow-up investigation and further testing confirmed FMD in kudu within the Park. At present, no other wildlife species in the Park are showing clinical signs consistent with FMD.”
“These matters are being investigated by the relevant veterinary authorities. FMD affects susceptible cloven-hoofed animals and is not considered a human health risk. No cloven-hoofed animals may enter or leave the Park unless authorised by the relevant veterinary authority following the required risk assessment,” SANParks said.
SANParks is working closely with the Department of Agriculture and other relevant stakeholders to assess the extent of the occurrence, monitor animal health and implement appropriate disease-management measures.
Any future movement of susceptible animals will be subject to a veterinary risk assessment, statutory requirements and formal approval.
Biosecurity controls have been strengthened. These include disinfecting vehicles before they leave designated game-viewing areas, along with measures to limit the potential movement of infectious material beyond affected or controlled areas.
SANParks said it is maintaining communication with neighbouring landowners, livestock producers and other stakeholders to align precautionary measures where necessary.
“Further controls will be introduced if advised by the veterinary authorities or required under applicable animal-disease legislation.”
“There is no human health risk associated with FMD. Tourism operations remain open and will continue to be managed in accordance with veterinary requirements and the Park’s disease-management measures. Visitors can assist by following all access, movement and biosecurity instructions issued by the Park,” SANParks said.
The national parks body assured the public that it maintains active wildlife disease surveillance and response systems and will continue to monitor affected kudu.
“Monitoring will also cover other susceptible wildlife and relevant risk pathways, in cooperation with veterinary authorities. Further public updates will be issued when verified, material information becomes available. This measured approach is intended to support effective disease control while keeping visitors, neighbouring communities and stakeholders appropriately informed,” SANParks said. –SAnews.gov.za