The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) in South Africa has reported that there have been no further incidents of dead or dying sardines in the past two weeks. This development indicates that the acute phase of the mortality event has subsided. However, the department has cautioned that it is still too early to conclude that the event is over. The last reported incident was an isolated case near Mbotji on the northern Wild Coast on 10 September 2026.
The DFFE has emphasized that surveillance and reporting arrangements remain in place. The department continues to encourage coastal authorities, fishers, and members of the public to report any new occurrences promptly. This measure aims to ensure that any potential risks associated with the mortality event are promptly identified and addressed. The Pilchard herpesvirus (PHV) has been identified as the strongest biological factor associated with the event.
PHV is a fish virus that does not pose a risk to humans. The department has assured that commercially produced sardine products released through regulated channels are safe for consumption. However, the public has been advised not to collect or consume dead sardines found on beaches, feed them to animals, or use them as bait. This precautionary measure is intended to prevent any potential risks associated with the handling of dead sardines.
Laboratory and epidemiological investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the mortalities, the distribution, and possible source of the virus. Samples collected before and during the mortality event, as well as samples obtained subsequently from commercial sardine catches, are still being analyzed. The analysis aims to strengthen understanding of the event and inform management decisions.
The temporary precautionary catch limitation introduced on 11 September 2026 remains in force until 2 October 2026. The Small Pelagic Scientific Working Group will convene on 29 September 2026 to consider the latest mortality reports, laboratory findings, fishing activity, and catch information. The group will advise on the management of the directed sardine fishery after the temporary measure expires.
Any resulting management decision will be communicated once the applicable decision-making process has been completed. The planned end-of-year hydroacoustic survey will provide the first estimate of sardine biomass and distribution following the mortality event. Scientific work and stakeholder coordination are continuing under the response plan overseen by the High-Level PHV Task Team.
The DFFE has urged the public to remain vigilant and report any new occurrences of dead or dying sardines. The department is working closely with stakeholders to monitor the situation and manage the risks associated with the mortality event. The investigation into the cause of the event is ongoing, and the department will provide updates as more information becomes available.
Key points
- The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment has received no further reports of dead or dying sardines in the past two weeks.
- The Pilchard herpesvirus has been identified as the strongest biological factor associated with the mortality event.
- The temporary precautionary catch limitation remains in force until 2 October 2026.
