SANParks is currently implementing mandatory vehicle disinfection measures at all key entry points and public roads associated with Addo Elephant National Park: Main Gate, Matyholweni Gate, Addo Heights Public Road, Nyathi Gate and the Kabouga Section.
JP Louw, SANParks Head of Communications and Spokesperson, said this is a precautionary response to the detection of a positive case of disease in a beef cattle herd in Paterson approximately two farms from the park boundary.
“The disinfection process involves spraying vehicle tyres and wheel arches with F10 – a standard disinfectant widely used for biosecurity purposes. The requirement applies to all vehicles entering or passing through game areas, including private, commercial safari and tour operator vehicles as well as those belonging to accommodation establishments and other tourism-related businesses.”
Louw said no additional procedures are required for commercial safari operators or tour vehicles but all vehicles must be disinfected each time they enter or transit the game area, regardless of how many times during a single day.
“The process takes approximately three minutes per vehicle and has not resulted in significant delays, increased queue times or operational challenges at gate facilities.”
Similar vehicle disinfection protocols are currently in place at other SANParks-managed areas, including Mountain Zebra National Park and Karoo National Park.
“Maintaining strict biosecurity controls is critical to protect vulnerable wildlife species, safeguard biodiversity and reduce the risk of disease outbreaks that could have significant ecological, conservation and economic consequences,” said Louw.
He confirmed there are currently no reported disease incidents within Addo Elephant National Park and the disinfection measures are purely precautionary.
“Park operations, visitor activities, tourism services, accommodation facilities, guided game drives and other visitor experiences continue as normal. At this stage, the measure remains a temporary precautionary intervention that will stay in effect until further notice as SANParks continues to monitor the disease risk and safeguard wildlife and livestock health within and around protected areas.”
