SAT1 foot-and-mouth outbreaks reported in Namibia’s disease-free zone

According to Defra’s preliminary assessment dated 16 October, SAT1 foot-and-mouth disease was reported in Namibia’s southern Karas region on 23 September. Initially, 63 of 75 susceptible cattle on one farm showed signs; laboratory testing confirmed the virus. Follow-up reports brought the number of affected farms in the south to 16.

The assessment also records a separate report on 13 October in northeastern Zambezi, within the infected zone; its serotype was awaiting confirmation when the report was written. Nationwide restrictions on movement and trade in susceptible animals and related products were applied. Defra rated the risk of introduction to Great Britain as low, but not zero, citing distance, limited trade and restrictions. The assessment also says the UK suspended imports of fresh Namibian bovine, sheep and goat meat and introduced safeguards for certain animal products; this reports the government’s stated measures, not legal advice.