Adamawa State Launches Vaccination Campaign to Combat Hemorrhagic Septicaemia, a Deadly Livestock Disease

 

The Adamawa State Government has launched a major vaccination campaign to prevent the spread of Hemorrhagic Septicaemia (HS), a severe bacterial infection that has reportedly killed over 1,000 cows in neighboring Taraba State. The disease, which primarily affects cattle, buffaloes, goats, and pigs, has been confirmed in the Sardauna Local Government Area of Taraba, which shares a border with Adamawa.

According to Dr. Suleiman Aminu, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Livestock and Aquaculture, the state government is taking proactive measures to prevent the spread of the disease into Adamawa. "Given the confirmed cases in Gembu, Taraba, and their spread to other local government areas, we have instructed all Divisional Veterinary Officers (DVOs) to enhance their efforts and perform detailed examinations to avert the disease's encroachment into Adamawa," Aminu stated during a press briefing in Yola.

Hemorrhagic Septicaemia (HS) is a severe bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Pasteurella multocida, which primarily affects animals and is not considered communicable to humans. The disease has a rapid progression and high mortality rate, with symptoms including high fever, swelling, depression, difficulty breathing, and rapid death if not treated promptly.

The most effective measure against HS is vaccination. Regular immunization helps build immunity in livestock and prevents outbreaks. The state government has already taken samples to the National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI) Laboratory in Vom, Plateau, for testing, and officials have confirmed that a mass vaccination campaign will soon be initiated statewide.

The ministry has also sought approval from the state Governor, Ahmadu Fintiri, to procure necessary vaccines. The Governor has urged residents to stay vigilant and report any suspected cases to local veterinary services or officials.

In related news, President Bola Tinubu recently announced the creation of a new Ministry of Livestock Development to address the conflicts between farmers and herdsmen in Nigeria. The Presidential Committee on Livestock Reforms, chaired by Prof. Attahiru Jega, aims to propose solutions for peaceful coexistence and economic well-being. The committee will collaborate with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to address the conflict, which is driven by competition over land and resources, causing significant casualties and economic losses.

The Adamawa State Government's vaccination campaign is a crucial step in preventing the spread of Hemorrhagic Septicaemia and protecting the state's livestock industry. By taking proactive measures to prevent the disease, the state government is demonstrating its commitment to the well-being of its citizens and the economy.