13 July 2006
Early in April 2006 a temporary ban was imposed on the movement of horses,
mules, donkeys and zebras in the Worcester and Robertson magisterial districts.
The purpose of this ban was to limit the spread of an outbreak of African horse
sickness on the border between these districts. Since the last case of the
disease was diagnosed four weeks ago veterinary services of the Western Cape
Department of Agriculture is now in a position to with effect on Friday, 14
July 2006, lift the ban.
It must be emphasised that all movement of horses within and into the
African horse sickness control zones in the Western Cape must still adhere to
the protocol requirements that have been in place before the ban was
instituted. The details of these requirements can be obtained from the closest
State veterinarian or the State veterinarian, Boland on telephone (021) 808
5026 during office hours. The protocol aims at preventing the introduction of
African horse sickness into the Western Cape.
With the co-operation of all role players and in particular the owners of
horses, it was possible to contain the outbreak to a limited area in the
Worcester and Robertson districts. The Department of Agriculture appreciates
the co-operation that they received at all times during the period that the ban
on the movement of animals was in place.
I want to thank officials of the Department for their dedication as well as
horse owners for the partnerships that they have formed with us to control and
curb the sickness.
Enquiries:
Alie van Jaarsveld
Spokesperson
Tel: (021) 483 4930
Fax: (021) 483 3890
E-mail: avjaarsv@pgwc.gov.za
Issued by: Department of Agriculture, Western Cape Provincial
Government
13 July 2003
Source: Western Cape Provincial Government (http://www.capegateway.gov.za/)
