Precautionary biosecurity measures have been implemented at the Franklin Game Reserve on Naval Hill following the national outbreak of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) and the declaration of a national disaster.
FMD is a highly contagious viral disease that affects cloven-hoofed animals. Although there are no cattle on Naval Hill, the reserve is home to species such as wildebeest, blesbok, and nyala, which remain vulnerable.
Dr Andri Grobbelaar, Friends of Franklin PBO chair says the measures are aimed at protecting both the reserve and its visitors. She explains the municipality has assisted in ensuring the necessary protocols are effectively implemented. “They can act as vectors for the disease. We want to ensure that visitors do not unknowingly carry the virus back on their vehicles and take it to their farms,” she says.
All vehicles entering the reserve are being sprayed with approved disinfectant, while visitors are required to step through disinfectant footbaths before entry. Failure to comply may result in access being denied. “As a recreational area, it is important for us to ensure the space remains open to the public,” Grobbelaar adds. “At this stage, the public is cooperating and adhering to the requirements. These measures must remain in place.”
Earlier this week, agriculture minister John Steenhuisen visited Bloemfontein to oversee the province’s mass vaccination rollout.
According to the Free State department of agriculture and rural development, the province has received an initial consignment of 2 000 vaccine doses, with millions more expected nationally as part of a phased strategy prioritising high-risk areas.
The University of the Free State has also launched a comprehensive FMD vaccination programme at its Paradys Experimental Farm. A total of 654 animals – including dairy cattle, beef cattle, and sheep – are being vaccinated, with booster doses scheduled in line with veterinary protocols. As of 24 February, the province had recorded 370 outbreaks.
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