2 February 2011
TO: SANEF – for circulation to all Provinces
RE: African Horse Sickness – Potential risk – Movement control
Due to suspected AHS outbreaks reported to date, specific areas have now been closed down for horse movement directly into the AHS Controlled Area of the Western Cape (see page 2 & 3 for full report from the AHS Trust).
It is only a matter of time before a general ban on movements into the AHS Controlled Area is imposed by the South African Veterinary Services. All horse owners considering movements into the Western Cape need to first check with their local State Veterinarian to gain official approval.
Areas currently closed for movement to the AHS Controlled Area:
Lanseria
Pretoria North
Most of KZN
Movements from the above areas will be subject to a quarantine period of up to 21 days in Beaufort West.
Notes:
- See attached PDF describing requirements for movements into the AHS Controlled Area
- Any owners not adhering to these veterinary regulations can be prosecuted with severe quarantine status placed on their properties and surrounding areas.
For the benefit of South African equestrian sport, we wish to protect the resident population of horses in the Western Cape as well as South Africa’s export status. An outbreak of AHS in the AHS Controlled Area will jeopardize international participation by South African horses.
Yours Faithfully
Douglas Welsh
CEO
AHS Trust
