Tag: animal health
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Bridging the Gap: Tackling Vaccination Shortfalls in Livestock
Introduction: Why livestock vaccination matters Vaccination has long been a cornerstone of animal health, reducing morbidity, mortality, and the economic impact of infectious diseases. From dairy cows to poultry and swine, effective vaccines can prevent outbreaks that threaten food security, livelihoods, and trade. Yet, despite advances since the era of Pasteur, vaccination shortfalls persist in…
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The Problem With Vaccination Shortfalls in Livestock
Why Livestock Vaccination Shortfalls Persist Vaccination has long been a frontline defense against livestock disease, but gaps in coverage remain a persistent threat to animal health and global food security. From remote smallholder farms to large commercial operations, various factors—economic constraints, supply disruptions, and gaps in veterinary services—combine to create vulnerable populations of animals susceptible…
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Steenhuisen Outlines Two-Month Path to National FMD Plan Rollout
South Africa Charts a Clear Path for FMD Plan Rollout In a detailed briefing, opposition leader John Steenhuisen outlined the initial steps for South Africa’s comprehensive foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) containment and prevention program. The plan emphasizes rapid action in the first two months of 2026, with a focus on establishing robust traceability, improving animal health…
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South Africa’s FMD Plan: Key Milestones for January–February 2026
Overview: A New Phase in South Africa’s FMD Strategy South Africa is stepping up its battle against foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) with a clearly defined schedule for early 2026. The plan centers on rapid implementation of the Livestock Identification and Traceability System (LITS) and a suite of accompanying biosecurity measures designed to safeguard livestock, support farmers,…
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Steenhuisen Outlines Timeline For National FMD Plan
Steenhuisen Unveils the 2026 Timeline for South Africa’s FMD Plan In a move aimed at accelerating South Africa’s response to foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), national politician John Steenhuisen has laid out a structured timeline for implementing the country’s FMD plan. The plan focuses on tightening veterinary controls, reinforcing border procedures, and introducing robust livestock identification measures.…
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KZN Dairy Farmers Fight For Survival Amid Foot-and-Mmouth Disease Outbreaks
Foot-and-Mmouth Disease Strikes South Africa’s KZN Dairy Industry In the heart of KwaZulu-Natal, dairy farmers in the south-western and central regions are facing an existential threat as foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) cases rise among their herds. Despite rigorous biosecurity measures, the virus has continued to surface, disrupting milk production, livestock movements, and regional livelihoods. The situation…
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The hidden issue of mycotoxins – and what you can do about them
Understanding the hidden problem: mycotoxins in silage Mycotoxins are toxic compounds produced by certain mold species that can develop in forage and silage. While visible mold is a concern, the real threat often lies in toxins that aren’t obvious until they affect feedout quality and animal health. In silage systems, heat, moisture, and oxygen create…
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The Hidden Issue of Mycotoxins in Silage: How Heat Affects Feed Value and Animal Health
The Silent Threat in Silage: Mycotoxins and Heat Mycotoxins are toxic compounds produced by certain fungi that can contaminate silage and other animal feeds. While the dangers of mold and spoilage are widely discussed, the hidden impact of mycotoxins—especially when silage heats—often goes under the radar. Heating not only wastes energy but can change the…
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Ninth Bird Flu Case Detected at Norfolk Poultry Site
Overview: Ninth H5N1 Case Confirmed in Norfolk The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has confirmed a ninth case of avian influenza (H5N1) at a large commercial poultry site near Mundford, Thetford, in Norfolk. The confirmation underscores ongoing concerns about the spread of bird flu in Britain’s poultry industry. Officials say the virus…
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Steenhuisen Signals Private Vaccine Manufacturing Amid Rift Valley Fever Outbreak
Overview In the face of a Rift Valley Fever outbreak that has shaken livestock sectors nationwide, Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen has signaled a potential shift in how vaccines for state-controlled animal diseases could be produced in the future. Speaking to reporters and industry stakeholders, Steenhuisen suggested that private companies may be allowed to manufacture certain…