South Africa Pig Industry probes foot and mouth disease outbreaks

South Africa’s commercial pig industry is under increasing scrutiny following the confirmation of foot and mouth disease at a piggery in the Free State, with further suspected cases under investigation in KwaZulu-Natal. This represents a notable development for a sector that has largely avoided the virus, despite its widespread presence in the beef and dairy industries, largely due to intensive housing systems and stringent biosecurity measures.

Laboratory tests have confirmed the disease at the Free State facility, while results from the suspected KwaZulu-Natal sites are still awaited. Industry representatives report that infection in pigs is associated with particularly high mortality rates among suckling piglets, raising serious concerns for both animal welfare and the financial viability of affected operations. Investigations are now focused on identifying the characteristics of the virus involved and determining how it gained entry into commercial piggeries.

A significant challenge for the sector is the lack of an approved foot and mouth disease vaccine for pigs in South Africa. While the possibility of future vaccine approval is being explored, producers are being urged to maintain the highest possible biosecurity standards, monitor herds closely, and report any suspected cases without delay. Strengthened preventive measures and rapid response are seen as critical to limiting further spread and safeguarding the stability of the country’s pork industry.