The Federal Government has donated 50,000 doses of anthrax vaccine to the Lagos State Government in a bid to prevent the spread of the disease to animals and humans. This generous donation aims to safeguard the livestock sub-sector and ensure the availability of healthy meat to consumers. The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development encourages robust public awareness and sensitization to effectively control and prevent the disease in Lagos State.
The Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (FMARD), has taken a significant step to mitigate the spread of anthrax disease in Lagos State by donating 50,000 doses of anthrax vaccine. This generous contribution to the Lagos State Government aims to protect both animals and humans from the infectious zoonotic disease.
Anthrax, caused by a type of bacteria, poses a significant threat to domestic and wild animals, as well as humans working closely with infected animals. The bacteria can live as spores in the soil, wool, or hair of infected animals. Animals can become infected by breathing in or ingesting spores present in contaminated soil, plants, or water. Similarly, humans can contract the disease by inhaling or breathing in the spores, consuming contaminated meat, or coming into contact with the skin through wounds or cuts while handling infected animals.
Dr. Ernest Afolabi Umakhihe, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, highlighted the importance of vaccination for animals to prevent the spread of anthrax. The vaccine donation will facilitate the fast-tracking of animal vaccination, ensuring that butchers sell only healthy meat. Safeguarding the livestock sub-sector is a crucial aspect of disease prevention and control.
In addition to the vaccine donation, the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development calls upon the Lagos State Government to prioritize robust public awareness and sensitization campaigns. Preventive measures and early detection play a vital role in controlling the spread of anthrax. Heightened surveillance in slaughter slabs, abattoirs, livestock markets, and at the point of entry will help detect and contain the disease at its early stages.
The State Ministry of Agriculture in Lagos expressed appreciation for the support received from FMARD in curtailing the spread of anthrax. Vaccination campaigns have commenced, with particular focus on urban livestock farmers. The collaboration between the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Health strengthens efforts to prevent the disease from spreading.
Alhaji Abdullahi Lalega, the Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Association, pledged the commitment of cattle merchants and butchers to fight against anthrax. He recognized the importance of adhering to safety measures and assured support to curtail the disease.
Dr. Otto Muhinda, the Country Team Leader of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations in Nigeria, commended the State Government's initiatives in creating awareness and implementing preventive measures. National efforts should be driven by increased awareness among stakeholders to effectively combat the disease.
In conclusion, the Federal Government's donation of 50,000 doses of anthrax vaccine to the Lagos State Government marks a crucial milestone in disease prevention and control. By prioritizing vaccination and creating public awareness, steps are being taken to safeguard animal and human health. Collaborative efforts between relevant governmental agencies and stakeholders will assist in effectively curtailing the spread of anthrax in Lagos State.
Source of content: OOO News 2023-08-07 News
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