South Africa’s FMD battle: Containment, caution, and a call for collaboration

South Africa faces foot-and-mouth disease outbreaks in cloven-hoofed animals, driven by animal movements, wildlife reservoirs, and persistent biosecurity gaps. Effective control requires movement restrictions, active surveillance, farmer education, and coordinated government-farmer action. Locally adapted strategies, vigilance, and careful planning are essential to protect livestock, national trade, and overall food security.