At least 10 farms
here have been quarantined amid fears of a foot-and-mouth disease (FMD)
outbreak, with preliminary cases picked at three farms.
The move seeks to curb the spread of the highly contagious
livestock disease which can wipe out entire herds.
The Department of Livestock and Veterinary Services in
Makonde District has issued quarantine orders to 10 farmers surrounding the
epicentre of the outbreak.
In a letter addressed to livestock holders, the department
confirmed quarantining 10 farms until finalisation of investigations.
Reads the letter from the department: “In terms of Section
21, sub-section (4), paragraph (a) of the Animal Health Act 1970, you are
hereby notified that suspected FMD cases have been detected at Chapman,
Cecilmour and Takoma farms.
“Subsequently, these mentioned farms and following adjacent
farms have been placed under quarantine until further notice.”
The department has also suspended the movement of cattle
within Makonde District and outside.
Other affected farms include Rukute, Petroswil, Wildene,
Rosetta, Glen Louie, Kentucky and Chenene.
Speaking on condition of anonymity, a veterinary services
officer in the area said the department had taken the measures as a way of
stopping the spread of the FMD disease.
“Currently, samples are being analysed to assess if the
threat is really FMD,” he said.
“Although we have not yet confirmed the disease, as
veterinary services, we take it upon ourselves to do whatever it takes to stop
the spread of the disease.”
Makonde District animal health inspector Dr Jephat
Ngondonga said he had not received any report from their Mhangura offices.
Foot and mouth disease is a highly contagious disease found
in cattle and buffaloes.
Clinical signs of the FMD include temperature rises,
blisters containing fluid developing between the jaws and hooves.
The suspected outbreak comes at a time when another
outbreak of Theileriosis, commonly known as January disease has resurfaced in
some parts of the country.
Government recently confirmed the resurfacing of the cattle
disease. Herald
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