Livestock Farmers on High Alert Over Diseases Outbreak
Wednesday, October 11, 2023
Livestock farmers in cattle corridor districts are closely monitoring the emergence of black quarter and lumpy skin diseases in Lyantonde and Namisindwa. These diseases have raised concerns among both farmers and veterinary officers, leading to preventive measures.
The black quarter disease, an infectious bacterial disease, is characterized by visible signs like loss of animal energy, swollen limbs, lameness, and high body temperature. It primarily affects cattle, sheep, and goats, often leading to rapid fatality.
Conversely, lumpy skin disease is caused by the pox virus and affects cattle. It spreads through blood-feeding birds and insects like mosquitoes and ticks. Infected animals may show symptoms such as fever, skin nodules, and potential mortality, particularly in animals not previously exposed to the virus.
The affected areas span across Namisindwa District, including sub-counties of Bumbo, Bukokho, Buwatuwa, Lwakhakha, Tsekululu, Mukoto, and Bukhabusi. The cattle corridor encompasses various districts such as Isingiro, Kiruhura, Mbarara, Sembabule, Gomba, Kyankwanzi, Kiboga, Luweero, Nakaseke, Nakasongola, Teso, Elgon, and Karamoja.
In Lyantonde District, the black quarter disease has already claimed 54 cattle, predominantly in sub-counties like Kinuuka, Kashagama, and Lyakajura. To prevent further spread, Dr. Ronald Bameka, the Lyantonde District veterinary officer, emphasizes the need to bury infected animals promptly and implement vaccination.
Farmers are encouraged to use Blanthrax vaccines for their livestock. Dr. Bameka reported the successful vaccination of 10,000 cattle and expects more vaccines for the second phase.
Farmers express concerns about disease transmission due to the frequent movement of animals. Without rapid, comprehensive vaccination, the diseases could potentially impact cattle-keeping districts.
In Isingiro, the veterinary officer, Dr. Burhan Kasozi, notes that black quarter disease has not been reported but remains vigilant due to proximity to Lyantonde.
Dr. Andrew Akashaba, the district veterinary officer in Mbarara, affirms their readiness with available vaccines and ongoing farmer sensitization regarding black quarter.
In other districts like Nakasongola and Nakaseke, no cases of black quarter or lumpy skin have been reported. Local authorities encourage farmers to report any suspicious diseases.
While districts like Kabale and Kisoro report no cases, Rukiga District has registered two cases of black quarter in the past year.
The livestock diseases have prompted farmers across the country to stay vigilant against potential outbreaks. However, Mr. David Mityelo, the Namisindwa District acting production officer, reports the presence of lumpy skin disease in several sub-counties and notes the challenges of containment.
Lumpy skin disease, characterized by nodules on the skin and other body parts, traditionally occurred in southern and eastern Africa. Its geographic spread has caused international concern, extending to various countries in the Middle East, Balkans, and even China.
The geographic spread has raised concerns, and vaccination with attenuated virus is considered the most effective control method. In response, Namisindwa District has imposed a ban on cross-border livestock trade to prevent disease transmission.
Dr. Anna Rose Ademun, the Commissioner for Animals in the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries, defers to district veterinary officers for information on disease outbreaks.
