Foot-and-Mouth Spreads to South African Wildlife

Officials warn of new foot-and-mouth cases in wild animals as a national vaccination drive continues across South Africa.

Updated on Nov. 11, 2026 in Wildlife

Wide photograph of dry golden savanna grassland under a pale sky, with scattered flat-topped acacia trees along a low horizon and a faint dust trail. — South African authorities warned Tuesday that foot-and-mouth disease has spread from livestock into wild antelope and buffalo, as a national vaccination drive continues. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Should the government keep funding the costly foot-and-mouth vaccination drive?

South African authorities have warned of new foot-and-mouth disease cases in wildlife, after the epidemic was declared a national disaster earlier in 2026. The outbreak has led to export bans, and a country-wide state-sponsored vaccination drive is under way.

Why it matters

The spread of the disease from livestock into wild animals complicates efforts to contain it, and the vaccination campaign will need a sustained supply of doses. Export bans are also affecting the agricultural sector.

More than 14 million cattle, over 90% of the national herd, have been vaccinated this year, and the Department of Agriculture has requested R1.3 billion ($79 million) from the National Treasury for 2026/27. It is not yet clear how much of the requested amount Treasury will approve.

The players

Department of Agriculture

The South African government department responsible for agriculture policy, including animal health and the national vaccination campaign against foot-and-mouth disease.

National Treasury

South Africa's national fiscal authority, which controls public budget allocations and decides on the department's funding request for the 2026/27 financial year.

The details

Officials told lawmakers on Tuesday that the disease has spread to wildlife, with the largest number of outbreaks reported in KwaZulu-Natal and Limpopo provinces. Cases have been reported in roan antelope, sable, kudu and buffalo.

Earlier in 2026: the foot-and-mouth epidemic is declared a national disaster.
October 2026: Treasury reprioritises R423.4 million within the Department of Agriculture for 2026/27.
Tuesday, 10 November 2026: officials brief lawmakers on the wildlife outbreaks.

Roadmap

The national disaster declaration made the outbreak a state-level priority rather than a routine veterinary issue. The spread into wildlife now extends that response beyond farms into protected landscapes.

Livestock owners and farmers should follow official Department of Agriculture guidance on vaccination and movement restrictions. Visitors to wildlife areas should check for any local access or travel advisories before planning trips.

The takeaway

Animal disease outbreaks can cross from farms into wildlife, which makes containment harder and raises the cost of control. Sustained vaccination funding will be central to limiting the epidemic's economic and ecological impact.