Although as yet unconfirmed, authorities in the southern African country of Botswana have notified the World Animal Health Organization (OIE) of a suspected outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).
Reportedly, the outbreak currently only involves cattle within a communal farming area of approximately 90,000 head located about 45 km from the South African border. Beef is Botswana’s 2nd largest export earner after mining, with much of the production exported to South Africa and western Europe. South Africa has banned the importation of cloven hoofed animals and their products.
Since laboratory confirmation has not yet been received, the viral serotype involved in this outbreak is unknown. The last outbreak of FMD in Botswana occurred in August/September 2005 and involved the FMD virus serotype SAT 2.
Source:
ProMED mail