New FMD control framework replaces all prior measures — immediate nationwide effect

Government Notice 7668 of 8 July 2026 publishes comprehensive control measures for Foot and Mouth Disease outbreaks in cloven-hoofed livestock under section 9(1) of the Animal Diseases Act 35 of 1984. The measures revoke and replace all previous FMD-related section 9 control measures, establishing a single operative framework. Key obligations include mandatory same-day reporting of any FMD suspicion to State Veterinary Services, immediate isolation of affected animals and premises access restrictions, a state veterinary visit within 24 hours of notification, individual identification and lifelong traceability of all cloven-hoofed livestock on infected or vaccinated premises, and controlled slaughter timelines prohibiting slaughter before Day 16 post-Day Zero with unrestricted abattoir slaughter (including export abattoirs) permitted only from Day 42. Dairy processing and product movement are subject to specific conditions, and quarantine is lifted by written notice 42 days after Day Zero confirmation. The notice was signed by the Minister of Agriculture on 4 July 2026 and is effective immediately upon publication.