George, 9 July 2024 – An outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) has struck the Eastern Cape, leading to significant disruptions for the upcoming George Agricultural Show scheduled for the end of August. This marks the second time in four years that the region has faced threats of FMD outbreak, once again affecting the participation of split-hoofed species at the event.
During a board meeting held on Monday, 8 July 2024, the George Agricultural Show board made the difficult decision to exclude all cloven-hoofed animals from this year’s show. This decision means that beef cattle, dairy cattle, sheep, and goats will not be showcased at the event. This precaution is aimed at preventing the spread of the disease and ensuring the safety of all participants and attendees.
“The health and safety of our livestock and the agricultural community are our top priorities,” stated Corné Botha, President of the George Agricultural Show board. “Given the recent outbreak, it is crucial that we take all necessary measures to prevent any further spread of foot-and-mouth disease.”
To enhance biosecurity measures, several precautions will be implemented during the show:
– Disinfection of Vehicle Tyres: All vehicles entering the showgrounds will have their tyres disinfected.
– Footbaths with Disinfectant: Footbaths will be placed at all pedestrian entrances to the showgrounds to ensure that footwear is properly sanitized before entry.
Fortunately, the horses and poultry departments remain unaffected by the outbreak and will participate in the show as planned. This decision provides some relief to organizers and attendees, ensuring that these popular exhibits can still be enjoyed.
Foot-and-mouth disease is a highly contagious viral disease that affects cloven-hoofed animals, causing fever, blisters, and lesions in the mouth and on the feet. The disease can lead to significant economic losses in the agricultural sector due to decreased productivity and trade restrictions.
Local farmers and exhibitors have expressed their disappointment but understand the necessity of these measures. “While it’s disappointing to miss out on showcasing our livestock, we fully support the decision to prioritize animal health and safety,” said a local farmer who planned to participate in the show.
The George Agricultural Show is a vital event for the agricultural community, providing a platform for farmers to display their livestock, share knowledge, and engage with the public. Despite the setback, organizers remain optimistic and are committed to delivering a successful and safe event for all attendees.
As the situation evolves, further updates will be provided by the George Agricultural Show board and local authorities. The agricultural community is urged to remain vigilant and adhere to biosecurity protocols to mitigate the spread of foot-and-mouth disease.
For more information and updates on the George Agricultural Show, please visit the official website or contact the show organizers directly.
