Tag: Biosecurity


  • BVI Steps Up Regional Response As FMD Outbreak Escalates Across SADC

    BVI Steps Up Regional Response As FMD Outbreak Escalates Across SADC

    Overview: A regional push against FMD Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) remains a grave threat to livestock across Southern Africa. In response, the Botswana Vaccine Institute (BVI) has announced a concerted regional effort to bolster containment, surveillance, and vaccination programs throughout the Southern African Development Community (SADC). The initiative seeks to coordinate technical expertise, share best practices,…

  • BVI Expands Regional FMD Response as SADC Outbreak Escalates

    BVI Expands Regional FMD Response as SADC Outbreak Escalates

    Overview: FMD Threat Across SADC Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) remains a critical threat to livestock systems across Southern Africa. As outbreaks intensify in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region, national authorities and regional bodies are stepping up coordinated responses. The Botswana Vaccine Institute (BVI) has emerged as a key player, deploying technical experts and sharing…

  • Botswana Imposes Bans and Biosecurity Measures After Suspected FMD Cases

    Botswana Imposes Bans and Biosecurity Measures After Suspected FMD Cases

    Overview: A Nation on High Alert Botswana has announced a package of prohibitions and enhanced biosecurity measures after officials reported suspected cases of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in livestock in the Masunga District. While confirmation from veterinary authorities is still pending, the move reflects a precautionary stance aimed at protecting Botswana’s vast cattle and wildlife sectors,…

  • Botswana Enacts Prohibitions as Suspected Foot-and-Mouth Disease Cases Emerge

    Botswana Enacts Prohibitions as Suspected Foot-and-Mouth Disease Cases Emerge

    Overview: A Rapid Response to Suspected FMD Botswana has activated a set of prohibitions and containment measures following the reported suspicion of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in livestock within the Masunga District. Authorities say swift action is essential to prevent spread to neighboring herds, farms, and trade partners. The situation underscores the ongoing need for vigilant…

  • Biosecurity, Trade Disruptions And Climate Variability Define SA Agriculture In 2025

    Biosecurity, Trade Disruptions And Climate Variability Define SA Agriculture In 2025

    Overview: A Sector in Recovery with New Frontiers South African agriculture entered 2025 with a cautious optimism following a turbulent 2024. At the Nedbank Agriculture Webinar held on 28 January, Dr. Tracy Davids delivered a detailed assessment of how the sector moved from crisis to recovery while facing fresh challenges. The conversation centered on three…

  • Biosecurity, Trade Disruptions And Climate Variability Defined SA Agriculture In 2025

    Biosecurity, Trade Disruptions And Climate Variability Defined SA Agriculture In 2025

    Overview: A Sector in Transition South African agriculture in 2025 emerged from crisis into a phase of cautious recovery, shaped by three enduring forces: biosecurity challenges, shifting trade dynamics, and pronounced climate variability. During the Nedbank Agriculture Webinar held on 28 January, Dr. Tracy Davids laid out a nuanced portrait of how farms, markets, and…

  • Next-Generation Space Antimicrobial: Assessing Microbial Activity And Reduction Across The ISS

    Next-Generation Space Antimicrobial: Assessing Microbial Activity And Reduction Across The ISS

    Introduction: The Challenge of Microbial Control in Space Microbial contamination on the International Space Station (ISS) presents a persistent risk to crew health and mission integrity. Traditional cleaning protocols, while effective, demand significant time and effort from astronauts, reducing time available for science and maintenance. This article discusses a next-generation space antimicrobial designed to improve…

  • Pneumonia in livestock: Spot the signs before it’s too late

    Pneumonia in livestock: Spot the signs before it’s too late

    Why pneumonia in livestock is a pressing concern Pneumonia remains one of the most costly and dangerous diseases in livestock production. It affects young, stressed, or recently moved animals most severely, and when undetected or mismanaged, it can trigger rapid deterioration, high treatment costs, and significant production losses. Early detection is the cornerstone of effective…

  • Pneumonia in Livestock: Spot the Signs Early to Prevent Losses

    Pneumonia in Livestock: Spot the Signs Early to Prevent Losses

    Understanding pneumonia in livestock Pneumonia is a leading respiratory disease in livestock, causing significant welfare concerns and economic losses. It most often affects young, stressed, or recently moved animals whose immune systems are challenged by crowding, poor ventilation, or abrupt weather changes. Early detection is key: when pneumonia is identified and treated promptly, recovery rates…

  • Pneumonia in Livestock: Spot the Signs Before It’s Too Late

    Pneumonia in Livestock: Spot the Signs Before It’s Too Late

    Understanding Pneumonia in Livestock Pneumonia remains one of the most costly and dangerous diseases affecting livestock production, especially in young, stressed, or newly managed animals. It is a multifactorial disease that can result from viral or bacterial infections, environmental stressors, or a combination of these factors. Early detection is crucial to minimize mortality, improve recovery…