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African horse sickness confirmed in one horse in Cederberg

Published

The Department of Agriculture confirmed the case on a property in the Western Cape, caused by AHS virus serotype 7. It has set movement restrictions and an outbreak containment area, and it strongly discourages vaccination for now.

Laboratory tests at the University of Pretoria's Veterinary Genetics Laboratory confirmed the virus. Surveillance in the area is now more intense. The Western Cape Department of Agriculture will issue updates on containment measures, movement restrictions and permits.

Agriculture Minister Willie Aucamp said there is no proof of large-scale disease activity outside the property. He said the quick detection shows how the veterinary surveillance system works. His statement said: "While there is no proof of large-scale disease activity outside the said property, the department is focused on total vigilance".

The department said vaccinating while midges are active could spread the vaccine strain and worsen the situation. It advised owners to stable horses from two hours before sunset until two hours after sunrise to protect them from midges.

Key facts

Who
Willie Aucamp (Agriculture Minister); Department of Agriculture (confirmed the AHS case); University of Pretoria's Veterinary Genetics Laboratory (conducted laboratory tests confirming the virus); Western Cape Department of Agriculture (issues updates on containment measures, movement restrictions and permits)
What
The Department of Agriculture confirmed an African horse sickness case (AHS virus serotype 7) on a Cederberg property, leading to movement restrictions, an outbreak containment area and intensified surveillance. Vaccination is strongly discouraged at this time.
When
30 October 2026
Where
Cederberg Local Municipality, Western Cape
Status
Reported

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