Anthrax Outbreak: Plateau Government Plans to Vaccinate 4.3 Million Cattle
Plateau Government to Launch Vaccination Drive for 4.3 Million Cattle Against Anthrax
In an effort to contain the spread of anthrax within the state, Dr. Sipak Shase, the Director of the Plateau State Ministry of Agriculture, announced on Tuesday in Jos that the Plateau Government will commence the vaccination of 4.3 million cattle.
Dr. Shase revealed that the state government has already acquired 200,000 doses of vaccines to combat the disease.
Anthrax, caused by the spore-forming bacterium Bacillus anthracis, is primarily known to affect animals, particularly cattle, sheep, and goats, as reported by the News Agency of Nigeria.
Anthrax can be transmitted to humans through direct contact with infected animals or by handling contaminated animal products, including meat, wool, or hides.
Inhalation of anthrax spores can lead to infection, and cutaneous anthrax can occur when individuals come into contact with contaminated materials or through open wounds.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang has taken proactive measures to prevent anthrax cases in the state by mandating the vaccination of all animals. As of now, there have been no reported cases of anthrax in the region.
"The exercise will involve all 17 local government areas, with the assistance of ad hoc staff," stated the director.
Additionally, during a meeting with the butchers in various abattoirs across the state, the director emphasized the importance of personal hygiene in combating the disease.
Dr. Magdalene Nanven, the Risk Communication and Community Engagement Officer, provided valuable insights to the butchers, urging them to wear face masks, overalls, and hand gloves, and to maintain good personal hygiene practices.
Grateful for the prompt and proactive measures taken by the state government, some of the butchers expressed their appreciation. Mr. Ikeana John, a butcher, remarked, "The fact that the campaign was brought to the abattoir showed that the state was mindful of us."
Mr. Bilal Yusuf, another butcher, expressed his belief that the government's support would help prevent any further outbreaks.
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