Foot and mouth disease contained

THE dreaded foot and mouth disease that broke out in Selibe Phikwe, Botswana in May, has been successfully contained and no further outbreaks from the area have occurred.

The Namibian Directorate of Veterinary Services in the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry confirmed this at the weekend, adding that no more resultant risks were posed to Botswana and neighbouring countries. “Official correspondence between the veterinary authorities of Botswana and Namibia show that control measures are in place in the affected area (Selibe Phikwe) and that there is no risk to neighbouring countries,” said Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr Otto Hubschle.Following the announcement, movement of animals and meat products across borders and in transit through Botswana can now recommence according to rules and regulations that were applicable before a ban was put in place in early May, due to the outbreak.Hubschle said this free movement was extended to items like straw, manure, curios, baskets and hay.In early May, Botswana notified Namibia of the contagious disease which had been identified in cattle in Selibe Phikwe; a town situated near the border of Botswana, South Africa and Zimbabwe.Fearing the spread of the disease, the eastern town was placed under quarantine, while Namibia along with others, banned meat and meat products coming from Botswana at the time.”Official correspondence between the veterinary authorities of Botswana and Namibia show that control measures are in place in the affected area (Selibe Phikwe) and that there is no risk to neighbouring countries,” said Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr Otto Hubschle.Following the announcement, movement of animals and meat products across borders and in transit through Botswana can now recommence according to rules and regulations that were applicable before a ban was put in place in early May, due to the outbreak.Hubschle said this free movement was extended to items like straw, manure, curios, baskets and hay. In early May, Botswana notified Namibia of the contagious disease which had been identified in cattle in Selibe Phikwe; a town situated near the border of Botswana, South Africa and Zimbabwe.Fearing the spread of the disease, the eastern town was placed under quarantine, while Namibia along with others, banned meat and meat products coming from Botswana at the time.