August 8, 2006

South Africa confirms foot-and-mouth disease

The South African government has confirmed an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease in the north-east of the country but says it believes the cases can be brought under control quickly, the agriculture department said Tuesday (Aug 8).

The disease, which can be fatal to livestock but is rarely contracted by humans, was found in 11 cattle in a group of 45 that were inspected, the department said in a statement.

"The authorities expect that the situation can be brought under control rapidly without undue effects on the agricultural industry as a whole," the department said.

The area where the cattle are located is in north-east South Africa, near the border with Mozambique.