By Adeyemi Adekunle
In a bid to avert the spread of a deadly cattle disease, the Adamawa State government is mobilizing resources following the alarming death of over 1,000 cows in neighboring Taraba State.
Suleiman Aminu, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Livestock and Aquaculture, disclosed this during a weekend interactive session with journalists. He revealed that a memo has been sent to Governor Ahmadu Fintiri, seeking approval to purchase drugs necessary for a mass vaccination campaign across the state.
“We are ramping up our surveillance efforts and planning a comprehensive vaccination drive to counter haemorrhagic septicaemia,” Aminu stated. This bacterial disease, which primarily affects cattle, buffaloes, goats, and pigs, is suspected of causing the recent fatalities in Taraba. Symptoms include high fever, neck swelling, depression, and difficulty breathing, often leading to death within 24 hours.
Aminu emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that the disease’s rapid onset and high mortality rate necessitate immediate action. “Our priority is to safeguard the livestock and livelihoods of our farmers,” he added.
The ministry’s proactive stance includes not only the procurement of vaccines but also heightened surveillance to detect and manage any potential outbreaks promptly.
The state government’s response is seen as crucial in averting a similar crisis in Adamawa, where livestock farming is a significant part of the economy.
Farmers and stakeholders in the livestock industry have expressed support for the government’s swift action. “We are hopeful that the measures being put in place will protect our animals and ensure our farms remain productive,” said Musa Aliyu, a local cattle farmer.
As Adamawa braces for this critical vaccination campaign, the government’s efforts underline the importance of rapid response and preventive measures in combating agricultural diseases.
