In response to the recent anthrax outbreak in Zamfara State, the Rivers State Government has initiated an emergency statewide vaccination campaign to protect livestock from the deadly disease.
The campaign, scheduled to run from February 10 to 17, aims to vaccinate all livestock in the state and curb the potential spread of anthrax.
Commissioner for Agriculture, Victor Kii, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “Food safety and security are shared responsibilities. We urge all livestock farmers to work with our veterinary doctors to ensure the success of this campaign.”
Anthrax is a zoonotic disease that can affect both animals and humans, spreading through direct contact, consumption of infected meat or animal products, or inhalation of spores. Recent cases in Niger and Zamfara states have prompted Rivers State to take proactive measures to safeguard public health.
Kii confirmed that the Ministry of Agriculture will provide anthrax vaccines across all 23 local government areas. He urged livestock farmers to participate in the vaccination drive and remain vigilant for symptoms of anthrax in their animals, including high fever, weakness, bleeding from body openings, and difficulty breathing.
He also advised the public to exercise caution when purchasing livestock, recommending they check for signs of illness before slaughter, avoid contact with meat or by-products from sick or dead animals, and report any sudden animal deaths to the Ministry of Agriculture and veterinary services.
The Commissioner reassured residents that the Ministry is collaborating with relevant stakeholders to prevent the disease from reaching Rivers State.
