FCTA begins mass vaccination to mitigate spread of Anthrax
By Kasim Isa Muhammad
Kanempress
25th July 2023
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has initiated a large-scale vaccination program for cattle to contain the spread of Anthrax in the FCT, Abuja.
The program, which began in Patkon Kore Grazing Reserve of Gwagwalada Area Council, aims to vaccinate approximately one million cattle across the six area councils in the FCT.
It was gathered that the action comes after the confirmation of Anthrax in Suleja, Niger State, a neighbouring state.
Similarly, The Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA) has called on the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency in the animal health sector to address Anthrax and other zoonotic diseases effectively.
Dr. Olutoyin Adetuberu, the NVMA’s National President, warned the public against consuming dark-colored meat, as it could indicate that the animal was infected with the deadly disease.
Dr. Adetuberu emphasized the importance of buying meat from vendors whose products have been inspected and certified by veterinary doctors.
She also urged the government to employ veterinary doctors to oversee abattoirs and carry out vaccinations in the 17 border-states affected by the Anthrax outbreak, as well as adjoining states bordering Niger Republic.
On his part, the Chairman of the FCT chapter of NVMA, Dr. Ifeanyi Ogbu, called for the establishment of veterinary clinics at the local government level and the employment of veterinary doctors to improve accessibility and affordability of veterinary services.
Dr. Regina Adulugba, the Director of Veterinary Services in FCTA, described Anthrax as a fatal disease for both animals and humans, contracted through open wounds, airborne transmission, and consumption of infected animals.
In another development, Malam Yahaya Isa, the Chairman of Miyatti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in the FCT, praised the FCTA’s proactive approach, stating that it would safeguard livestock, investments, and human lives.
