South Africa has launched a significant 10-year vaccination campaign aimed at protecting nearly 20 million cattle from the fast-spreading foot-and-mouth disease (FMD).
Details of the Vaccination Campaign
- The program started on February 15.
- It targets the prevention and control of foot-and-mouth disease, which poses a serious threat to cattle herds and the agricultural economy.
- The campaign will be implemented in phases to ensure widespread coverage.
Importance and Impact
FMD is known to spread rapidly and can result in severe economic losses for farmers. The government’s goal is to vaccinate as many cattle as possible to halt the disease’s progression.
Role of Farmers and Authorities
- Farmers are urged to cooperate by granting access to their livestock for vaccination.
- Early reporting of any suspicious symptoms in animals is strongly emphasized to enable prompt action.
- The campaign is supported by veterinary experts and the agricultural sector for effective execution and monitoring.
This initiative underscores South Africa’s commitment to safeguarding the livestock industry, rural livelihoods, and food security, while also maintaining the country’s international trade standards.
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