The Agriculture and Rural Development Department has confirmed new cases of Foot-and-Mouth Disease in the Free State.

This brings the total number of infections in the province to 42.

Outbreaks have been reported in seven towns, including Kroonstad, Viljoenskroon and Odendaalsrus, with the Moqhaka Municipality being the hardest hit.

The department has urged farmers to restrict the movement of cloven-hoofed animals.

The department’s spokesperson Moliehi Moeng says vaccinations are underway on affected farms.

“The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development reminds all stakeholders that the movement of animals under quarantine without the necessary documentation is a criminal offence. These measures are critical to protect the livestock industry, prevent the spread of foot and mouth disease, and safeguard the livelihoods of all farmers in the province.”