The Adamawa State government has launched a comprehensive vaccination programme for cattle to combat a severe outbreak of Hemorrhagic Septicaemia. This deadly disease, which has claimed over a thousand cattle in neighbouring Taraba State, poses a significant threat to livestock in the region.
Alhaji Tijjani Marksha, the Commissioner for Livestock and Aquaculture, explained that the vaccination effort is a crucial step in halting the disease’s spread. Hemorrhagic Septicaemia is characterised by symptoms such as sweating, elevated body temperature, and a rapid progression that can kill affected cattle within just 24 hours.
The vaccination campaign began in Gongoshi, located in Mayo Belwa Local Government Area, where hundreds of cattle have already been treated. The Commissioner praised the strong response from cattle owners and thanked Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri for his prompt action in addressing the crisis.
He encouraged the public to report any suspected cases of the disease to nearby veterinary clinics or the relevant ministry. Dr. Berthilimous Nyalas, Director of State Veterinary Services, outlined that the first phase of the vaccination drive will target local governments including Numan, Demsa, Lamurde, Mayo Belwa, Toungo, Fufore, Maiha, Mubi North, and Mubi South, due to their proximity to both Taraba State and the Cameroonian border.
Dr. Nyalas assured that all necessary measures have been put in place to ensure the effective vaccination of the targeted cattle.