JOHANNESBURG, Jan. 8 (Xinhua) -- Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) has been detected in South Africa's Limpopo Province, said Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) on Tuesday.

DAFF stated that samples collected have tested positive to FMD after reports of cattle with lameness were received.

FMD is a highly contagious viral disease. The disease affects cattle, pigs (domestic and wild), sheep, goats, and other cloven-hoofed animals.

"A team of experts from the Department and the Limpopo Veterinary Services is on the ground conducting further investigations to verify the results and determine the extent of the outbreak," said DAFF spokesperson Khaye Nkwanyana.

He said they have reported to the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) on Monday about the diseaes. As a result of this development, the official OIE recognized foot-and-mouth disease-free status of South Africa is temporarily suspended.

"The affected area is under quarantine and no movement of animals and animal products are allowed," Nkwanyana said.