The Western Cape Department of Agriculture has implemented disease-control measures following the confirmation of African horse sickness (AHS) in the Cederberg region, with veterinary teams conducting surveillance, movement tracing and containment activities to protect the province’s equine industry.
Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism, Dr Ivan Meyer, said the department’s immediate priority is to contain the outbreak and safeguard the integrity of the province’s African horse sickness-free zone, which plays an important role in South Africa’s international equine trade.
“The Western Cape has a responsibility to protect animal health while safeguarding the industries and livelihoods that depend on it.
“Our Veterinary Services team has responded swiftly, and the necessary disease-control measures are in place. There is currently no evidence of the disease spreading into the surveillance or free zones, which is reassuring,” said Minister Meyer.
The disease was confirmed on 27 October 2026 in a mule at Perdekraal, near Clanwilliam, within the established AHS protection zone. Laboratory testing confirmed African horse sickness virus serotype 7.
The affected area is approximately 198 km from the AHS-free zone and 97 km from the surveillance zone. While the source and extent of the infection are still being investigated, current surveillance information has not identified any spread into the surveillance or free zones.
The department’s Veterinary Services, working with the national Department of Agriculture and South African Equine Health and Protocols (SAEHP), has implemented movement restrictions, quarantine measures, surveillance and diagnostic testing.
Veterinary officials are also conducting movement tracing and monitoring the biting midges responsible for transmitting the disease.
Minister Meyer emphasised that protecting the Western Cape’s AHS-free zone remains a priority, given its importance to the country’s equine industry and access to international markets.
“The Western Cape’s disease-free zone is an important asset for our agricultural economy. Protecting its integrity requires continued vigilance, effective disease control and cooperation between government and the equine industry.
“We will continue working closely with national authorities, veterinarians and horse owners to manage the situation responsibly and ensure that accurate information is shared as investigations progress,” said Minister Meyer.
Horse owners are urged to support the containment efforts by taking the following precautions:
- Observe all movement restrictions and obtain the required authorisation before moving horses, mules or donkeys.
- Monitor animals for signs of disease, including fever, swelling of the head or neck, breathing difficulties or sudden death, and immediately report suspected cases to Veterinary Services.
- Reduce exposure to biting midges by stabling animals from two hours before sunset until two hours after sunrise, where possible, and avoiding low-lying, wet areas.
- Use appropriate registered insect repellents and insecticides.
- Refrain from vaccinating against AHS during this period, in accordance with the current guidance from veterinary authorities.
African horse sickness does not affect humans and poses no food-safety or public-health risk.
Minister Meyer appealed to horse owners and the wider equine industry to remain vigilant and cooperate with veterinary officials.
“Early detection and responsible action are essential to preventing the spread of animal diseases. I encourage all horse owners to follow the guidance of our veterinary professionals and report any suspected cases without delay.
“There is no need for panic, but we must remain vigilant. We will continue monitoring the situation closely and communicating developments as verified information becomes available,” concluded Minister Meyer.
Further information on disease-control measures and movement restrictions can be obtained from the department’s Veterinary Services at https://tinyurl.com/3nz9ec9n or at www.myhorse.org.za
Media Enquiries
Mary James
Head of Communication
Western Cape Department of Agriculture
Cell: 084 817 2376
