MEDIA RELEASE

EMBARGO: Immediate

DATE: 13 August 2025

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African Swine Fever Confirmed in Bredasdorp

Cape Agulhas Municipality confirms that laboratory testing has detected African Swine Fever Virus (ASFV) DNA in samples taken from pigs at the encampment in the Bredasdorp Informal Settlement. The tests, conducted by accredited laboratories in Pretoria under the supervision of the State Veterinary Services, confirm the presence of this highly contagious animal disease.

ASF poses no risk to human health or other animals but is deadly to domestic and wild pigs.

Mortality Totals

Since the first report on 30 July 2025, a total of 434 pigs have died within the quarantined encampment. This figure includes both pigs that died naturally and those that were humanely euthanised to prevent further suffering.

As of 13 August 2025, 330 pigs remain in the encampment under strict veterinary supervision.

Containment and Biosecurity Measures

• Quarantine Zone: Established on 30 July 2025, with 24/7 monitoring by Protection Services and Law Enforcement.

• Controlled Access: Only registered pig owners may enter to feed animals under supervision.

• Biosecurity Protocols: All persons exiting the site are disinfected before leaving.

• Carcass Disposal: Carcasses are being buried at an environmentally approved site authorised by the Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning.

• Animal Welfare: The NSPCA continues to humanely euthanise pigs displaying signs of severe distress, in compliance with the Animal Protection Act.

Community Engagement

Veterinary officials and the Animal Anti-Cruelty League have conducted on-site education sessions with pig owners, explaining the confirmed diagnosis, how ASF spreads, and the hygiene measures required. Pamphlets in English, Afrikaans, and isiXhosa have been distributed.

We invite all pig farmers to a public meeting at the Nelson Mandela Community Hall, Wednesday, 13 August 2025, starting at 18h00. The meeting will provide updates on the current ASF situation, guidance on biosecurity, and an opportunity for farmers to raise questions directly with veterinary and municipal officials.

Public Cooperation Needed

ASF is not harmful to people, but it spreads rapidly between pigs. Residents are urged to:

• Report any sick or dead pigs immediately.

• Not move pigs from one location to another

• Not sell or slaughter pigs from the affected area.

• Not dump carcasses in open areas, rivers, or refuse sites.

The Western Cape Department of Agriculture is urging the public and local farmers in Cape Agulhas to remain alert and take all necessary precautions. One of the most effective ways to control the spread is through community awareness and by stopping the movement of pigs within Cape Agulhas.

All pig farmers and residents are strongly advised not to purchase pigs from outside the Cape Agulhas area. In addition, local pig farmers are currently restricted from buying or selling pigs across district boundaries.

Reminder: Any breach of quarantine regulations is a criminal offence under the Animal Diseases Act and may lead to prosecution.

Cape Agulhas Municipality remains committed to transparent communication and will continue to provide updates as the response progresses.

We extend our sincere thanks to all stakeholders, partner organisations, and community members for their ongoing cooperation and commitment in managing this outbreak.

For more information or to report concerns:

028 425 5500 or 082 457 1774

For media enquiries:

Mr. Gurswin Prins, Senior Communications Officer

Tel: 028 425 5500 │ Email: gurswinp@capeagulhas.gov.za

ENDS

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Issued by:

Hendrik Kröhn

Acting Municipal Manager

Cape Agulhas Municipality

P O Box 51

Bredasdorp

7280