The scheme was published in the Government Gazette on Monday (4/5). It also came into effect on that date.

“Recovery in the industry starts with trade. Section 10 gives value chain operations a recognised vaccination and certification pathway, and with that, a route back to market access for producers and processors alike,” said Dewald Olivier, CEO of RMIS.

National programme

The routine vaccination scheme for FMD is a national programme under the Animal Diseases Act. It allows owners of domesticated cloven-hoofed livestock to vaccinate their animals through a private veterinarian, under the oversight of state veterinary services.

The scheme covers cattle, pigs, sheep, and goats, and participation is voluntary. Owners who do not participate are still eligible to receive vaccination through state veterinary services, as part of the national strategy.

Vaccination under the FMD scheme does not automatically change an animal’s quarantine status. Photo: Pexels

Requirements to participate include having traceable animals and a recording system, ensuring the farm location is registered, appointing an authorised veterinarian or paraprofessional, and showing a willingness to be audited.

Vaccine and vaccination costs are the responsibility of the animal owner.

The specific process for sourcing vaccines under the scheme, including which suppliers are approved and how to order, will be confirmed once the Section 10 committee is formally established.

Vaccine must come from a licensed manufacturer, importer, or distributor, and must be administered under the oversight of your appointed veterinarian.

The scheme is legally in force, but four conditions still need to be met before owners can formally participate.

• The Section 10 committee must be established.
• The FMD management manual must be issued.
• Vaccine must be allocated for use under the scheme.
• Private-sector veterinarians and veterinary paraprofessionals must obtain formal authorisation.

Vaccination under this scheme does not automatically change an animal’s quarantine status, movement restrictions, or allow the use and sale of products from vaccinated animals.

The state vaccination programme continues in FMD-infected and high-risk areas. Owners in those areas continue to receive vaccination through state veterinary services as part of the national strategy, regardless of whether they participate in the scheme.

OFM Agri/Isabel van Tonder dg

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