A case of rift valley fever has been identified in Groot-Brakrivier in the Western Cape Province of South Africa. Although only one case has been identified so far, this has raised concern within the region as an outbreak ending in August last year left 26 people and more than 8,500 animals dead. Furthermore, this has dashed the hopes of local wool and meat producers that the international markets will be open again since restrictions were placed following the outbreak last year. As livestock makes up 49% of agricultural output in South Africa, this may have serious financial repercussions on the local economy. Experts believe that the virus may continue to spread via mosquitoes as heavy rain and flooding perpetuate throughout the country and the Department of Agriculture has advised farmers to vaccinate their animals and to refrain from handling or eating sick animals.
