Foot and Mouth disease hits Lower Shire
At least 700 cows are at risk of contracting the Foot and Mouth disease at Mthumba dip tank, Mitole Extension Planning Area (EPA) in Chikwawa.
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Malawi Government has since temporarily suspended all livestock (cattle, goats, sheep and pigs) markets.
In a statement on Friday, Secretary for Agriculture, Erica Maganga said investigations are ongoing to establish the magnitude of the spread and map the extent of the problem.
She said in conformity with the Control and Animal Diseases Act (Cap 66:02), and the World Animal Health organisation guidelines, the Ministry has instituted some measures to contain the disease.
“Temporary ban is for all livestock (cattle, goats, sheep and pigs) slaughters; restriction of livestock and livestock products movement and ban of issuance of livestock permits,” she outlined.
Maganga also urged livestock farmers and the general public to cooperate with the ministry’s officials and the police during implementation of these measures.
Foot and Mouth Disease is a highly contagious viral disease that mostly affects cattle.
