In a repetition of what transpired in 2023, horse breeders and owners are again facing a critical shortage of African Horse Sickness (AHS) vaccines. Recently only 120 doses were released during this period of the year when all horses must be vaccinated.
African Horse Sickness is a viral disease posing a severe threat to the equine industry. Without this critical inoculation, horses across the country are at risk of contracting this fatal disease with severe consequences. These range from severe respiratory distress to death.
This scenario not only endangers the health and lives of horses but also poses a significant threat to the livelihoods of farmers and horse breeders with huge economic implications for our country.
The ramifications of an AHS outbreak extend beyond the immediate health crisis. For farmers and horse breeders, the inability to protect their stock means potential economic devastation. Losses incurred from horse deaths, medical expenses for the treatment of affected animals, and the subsequent impact on breeding programs could cripple the South African equine industry.
This would lead to a ripple effect, impacting related sectors such as tourism, agriculture, and equestrian sports, increasing our already vulnerable economic instability.
The AHS vaccine is administered in two doses to ensure comprehensive immunity. The first dose primes the immune system, while the second dose, given a few weeks later, boosts the immune response to provide long-term protection. This two-dose regimen is crucial for the effectiveness of the vaccine, making timely and complete vaccination essential.
The AHS vaccine is exclusively produced by Onderstepoort Biological Products (OBP), a State-Owned Enterprise (SOE) responsible for manufacturing essential veterinary vaccines in South Africa. The current shortage can be attributed to typical problems experienced with SOEs like production and logistical challenges.
The condition of OBP needs to be urgently investigated. In previous years the Ministers of Agriculture appeared to be ignorant of the problems at this once industry leading company, which like most SOE’s is a shell of its former self. It is critical that immediate measures are taken to address the shortages with increased investment in OBP’s production capabilities, streamlining the regulatory processes with enhanced logistical support. An effectively run OBP is critical to ensure the availability of AHS vaccines.
The DA in Gauteng will be engaging with the new Minister of Agriculture, John Steenhuisen, to investigate OBP and ensure this sinking ship is turned around.