Borders closed due to FMD outbreak in SA
Namibia's borders with South Africa have been closed to all imports and in-transit movements of cloven-hoofed animals and products from the neighbouring country with immediate effect.
The agriculture ministry announced yesterday that following an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in South Africa, the border closures were necessary.
The disease was detected in the Vhembe district of the Limpopo province in the FMD-free zone and reported to the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) on 7 January.
As a result the official OIE-recognised FMD-free status of South Africa is temporarily suspended.
The agriculture ministry said due to this any exports where FMD-free zone attestation is required cannot be certified.
FMD is one of the most contagious diseases of cloven-hoofed animals, which include cattle, sheep, goats, pigs and antelopes, among others. It has a devastating economic impact.
Common clinical signs of the disease include salivation, not grazing, limping, reluctance to move, blisters and ulcers on the tongue, gums, nares, udder and feet.
The suspension of the border movements of cloven-hoofed animals has led the ministry to cancel and recall all previously issued import and in transit permits.
Importers are urged to contact the veterinary import and export office for further information.
STAFF REPORTER
The agriculture ministry announced yesterday that following an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in South Africa, the border closures were necessary.
The disease was detected in the Vhembe district of the Limpopo province in the FMD-free zone and reported to the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) on 7 January.
As a result the official OIE-recognised FMD-free status of South Africa is temporarily suspended.
The agriculture ministry said due to this any exports where FMD-free zone attestation is required cannot be certified.
FMD is one of the most contagious diseases of cloven-hoofed animals, which include cattle, sheep, goats, pigs and antelopes, among others. It has a devastating economic impact.
Common clinical signs of the disease include salivation, not grazing, limping, reluctance to move, blisters and ulcers on the tongue, gums, nares, udder and feet.
The suspension of the border movements of cloven-hoofed animals has led the ministry to cancel and recall all previously issued import and in transit permits.
Importers are urged to contact the veterinary import and export office for further information.
STAFF REPORTER
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