News

South African National Parks (SANParks), working in coordination with the Department of Agriculture: Eastern Cape, confirms that a second set of diagnostic tests on samples collected from affected kudu in Addo Elephant National Park (AENP) has returned positive for Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD).

The Department of Agriculture (DoA) was notified after SANParks’ wildlife health surveillance detected an increase in lameness among kudu. Although the initial tests were negative, follow-up investigation and testing confirmed FMD in kudu within the Park. At present, no other wildlife species in the Park are showing clinical signs consistent with FMD.

The finding must be understood in the context of the broader FMD situation in the Eastern Cape. The positive result in kudu confirms the presence of the virus in the sampled animals, but does not, on its own, establish the source of infection, the direction of transmission, or a link between AENP and any other outbreak in the province. These matters are being investigated by the relevant veterinary authorities. FMD affects susceptible clove-hoofed animals and is not considered a human health risk. No cloven-hoofed animals may enter or leave the Park unless authorised by the relevant veterinary authority following the required risk assessment.

SANParks is working closely with the DoA and other relevant stakeholders to assess the extent of the occurrences, monitor animal health and implement appropriate disease-management measures. Any future animal movement of susceptible animals will be subject to veterinary risk assessment, statutory requirements and formal approval.

Biosecurity controls have been strengthened. These include the disinfection of vehicles before they leave designated game-viewing areas, together with measures to limit the potential movement of infectious material beyond affected or controlled areas.

SANParks is maintaining communication with neighbouring landowners, livestock producers and other stakeholders so that precautionary measures can be aligned where necessary. Further controls will be introduced if advised by the veterinary authorities or required under applicable animal-disease legislation.

There is no human health risk associated with FMD. Tourism operations remain open and will continue to be managed in accordance with veterinary requirements and the Park’s disease-management measures. Visitors can assist by following all access, movement and biosecurity instructions issued by the Park.

SANParks maintains active wildlife disease surveillance and response systems and will continue monitoring affected kudu, other susceptible wildlife and relevant risk pathways in cooperation with veterinary authorities. Further public updates will be issued when verified, material information becomes available. This measured approach is intended to support effective disease control while keeping visitors, neighbouring communities and stakeholders appropriately informed.