Nandi: The Department of Livestock in the County Government of Nandi has announced a one-month ban on the movement of cattle, sheep, and pigs following the outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease. Dr. Paul Sanga, Chief Officer in Charge of Agriculture and Cooperative Development, detailed the commencement of a mass vaccination campaign against Foot and Mouth Disease, as well as Anthrax and Black Quarter, for the affected livestock.
According to Kenya News Agency, Sanga warned that Foot and Mouth Disease has spread to five out of the six sub-counties in Nandi County. The Chief Officer urged locals to adhere to quarantine measures to prevent further disease spread. He mentioned that the vaccination targets approximately 300,000 heads of cattle in Nandi, emphasizing that it is a standard disease control exercise, and encouraged all farmers to vaccinate their livestock.
Dr. Samson Bitok, County Director in Charge of Veterinary Services, revealed that all livestock sale yards across the county will remain closed for a month to allow veterinary officials to manage Foot and Mouth Disease, Anthrax, and Black Quarter. ‘We have closed all livestock sale yards and implemented quarantine measures as a strategy to control the disease spread,’ Dr. Bitok stated.
Bitok identified symptoms of Foot and Mouth Disease, including wounds in the mouth, hooves, and teats, along with excessive saliva discharge. He advised farmers to monitor and report these symptoms promptly. Dr. Bitok recommended providing affected animals with carbohydrate-rich liquids and using antiseptic disinfectants for external treatment.
Dr. Bitok praised the National Government’s ongoing cattle mass vaccination campaign, expressing confidence that it will eradicate Foot and Mouth Disease, Anthrax, and other cattle diseases. He noted that a successful vaccination campaign would open more international markets for Kenyan animal products.
Nandi farmers have welcomed the vaccination initiative by the National and County Governments, as cattle keeping is a significant part of their economic livelihood.