FMD Symposium 2026: A Landmark Event for Knowledge, Collaboration and Biosecurity 

FOOT-AND-MOUTH DISEASE (FMD) SYMPOSIUM Octavoscene (Pty) Ltd is proud to host a landmark symposium focused on the global and local landscape of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD). We are bringing the world’s leading FMD authorities to South Africa for a rare, one-day intensive session. This event is a must-attend for veterinary professionals, livestock industry stakeholders, and biosecurity researchers. Featuring Distinguished Guest Speakers & Moderator: Dr. Donald King: Head of FAO World Reference Lab, Pirbright Institute, UK. Dr. Jonathan Arzt: Lead Scientist for FMD research, USDA Plum Island Animal Disease Center, USA. Dr. Michael Eschbaumer: Head of FMD Laboratory, Institute of Diagnostic Virology; Topic: The German Surveillance system and how they managed FMD. Dr. Chris Ashworth: Directs research and technical nutrition team worldwide, Zinpro USA. Prof. Armanda Bastos: Distinguished molecular biologist, University of Pretoria, South Africa. Moderator of the day: Dr. Gideon Bruckner, ARC, South Africa. Other Speakers to Be Included: Dr. Dirk Verwoerd Dr. Carla van der Merwe Dr. Anna-Marie Behrens Mrr. Wian Sülllwald Dr. David Gerber Detail Information Date 31 July 2026 City Pretoria, South Africa Venue Heartfelt Arena, 1000 Voortrekker Street Availability Limited Seating Available How to RSVP Due to the high-profile nature of our guest speakers and limited venue capacity, we encourage early registration. To secure your seat, please contact Jurené Botha: Email: orders@octavoscene.co.za

Sernick, together with Bonsmara SA, invites producers to an informative industry session focused on Foot-and-Mouth Disease and the road ahead for the livestock sector.Entry is free, and producers of all breeds are welcome to attend.The event will feature expert speakers from the veterinary, agricultural, and industry sectors, followed by a panel discussion addressing the challenges and future of livestock health management in South Africa.

At TMR 2025, Dr. Shaun Morris addressed over 300 delegates on South Africa’s response to foot-and-mouth disease, urging the industry to learn, adapt, and build stronger systems going forward.

At TMR 2025, Dr. Shaun Morris addressed over 300 delegates on South Africa’s response to foot-and-mouth disease, urging the industry to learn, adapt, and build stronger systems going forward.

📅 Issued: 13 June 2025📍 Source: Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development 🚨 Important Regulatory Update for Livestock Farmers and Transporters In light of increasing risks around animal disease transmission, new national control measures have been gazetted under the Animal Diseases Act (Act 35 of 1984). These regulations are aimed specifically at cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, sheep, and goats, in order to contain the spread of controlled diseases like Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD). ✅ Key Highlights of the New Measures 📝 Required Movement Documents When moving cattle, sheep, or goats, the following documents are mandatory: A health declaration from the responsible person at the origin farm. A signed undertaking from the destination farm confirming 28-day isolation before integration into the main herd. No movement allowed if animals show symptoms or suspicion of disease. 🐑 Gatherings Like Auctions & Livestock Shows Special biosecurity rules apply due to the high risk of disease spread at animal gatherings. These include: Clear separation between arrival (“dirty”) and biosecure (“clean”) areas. Mandatory on-site biosecurity officer registered with the South African Veterinary Council. Veterinary inspection of animals before and at the gathering. All animal movements and identities must be traceable and recorded for at least 5 years. 🚚 Transport Requirements Vehicles must be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected using approved FMD-effective products. Mixing animals from different origins increases disease risk and is discouraged. Animal conveyances must be registered and tracked. 🧼 Approved Disinfectants for FMD Use only registered products containing: Sodium hydroxide 2% […]