African public to assist in the campaign to combat classical swine fever in the
Eastern Cape province
20 November 2006
Due to an intensive campaign to combat classical swine fever in the Eastern
Cape province, large numbers of infected pigs have been culled and the owners
have been compensated. The disease persists in only a few small areas and
national and provincial veterinary officials, supported by the South African
Police Service (SAPS), South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and
Disaster Management are putting in a final effort to eradicate the disease
before the campaign comes to an end. During this period the Eastern Cape
province will remain a Classical Swine Fever Controlled Area in terms of the
Animal Diseases Act 35 of 1984, as declared on 7 April 2006.
No live pigs, pork or pork products may be taken out of the Eastern Cape
province. Holiday visitors to the Eastern Cape province are requested to note
that pork products, like sausages, bacon and ham, may be taken into the Eastern
Cape province, but will not be allowed out. This includes pork products that
are taken in transit through the Eastern Cape province. In addition, no live
pigs and whole/half pig carcasses may be moved into, within or through the
Eastern Cape without a permit issued by the local State Veterinary Office at
origin.
Hunters must take note that the measures include wild pigs, warthogs and
bushpigs as well as any of their products. Roadblocks at the borders of the
Eastern Cape province are enforcing the movement ban to prevent spread of the
disease.
The public can play an important role in combating the disease by adhering
to the instituted measures as mentioned above and by exercising patience at
roadblocks, to allow the staff to perform their duties. In doing so, everybody
will share in the important task of disease eradication and ensuring safe and
healthy food for all South Africans. Details are available from State
Veterinary offices.
Enquiries:
Steve Galane
Tel: (012) 319 7312
Cell: 083 635 7346
E-mail: dais@nda.agric.za
Issued by: Department of Agriculture
20 November 2006
