Outbreak of foot and mouth disease reported in six sub-counties

Presdient Uhuru Kenyatta tags an identifier on one of the inoculated cows when he launched a new oil-based foot and mouth (FMD) vaccine in Lodwar, Turkana County.

What you need to know:

  • An outbreak of foot and mouth disease that affects livestock has been reported in six sub-counties in Nakuru.
  • The disease was reported in the county last month and samples were taken to government laboratories where the results tested positive.
  • Nakuru County Director of Veterinary Services Dr Enos Amuyunzu called on farmers to be keen on the symptoms they encounter and report to veterinary officers for quick response as a preventive measure.

Outbreak of foot and mouth disease that affects livestock has been reported in six sub-counties in Nakuru.
The sub-counties affected include Njoro, Roingai, Gilgil, Bahati, Nakuru East and Nakuru West.
According to Nakuru County Director of Veterinary Services Dr Enos Amuyunzu, the disease was reported in the county last month and samples were taken to government laboratories where the results tested positive.
Mr Amuyunzu noted that the symptoms of the disease include fever, loss of appetite, blisters in the mouth and on feet and weight loss.
“The outbreak of foot and mouth disease in various sub counties was reported last month and has been confirmed through laboratory testing. A team of veterinary officers have been deployed to affected areas currently conducting ring vaccination to prevent spread of the disease,” he said.

PREVENTATIVE MEASURE
The director called on farmers to be keen on the symptoms they encounter and report to veterinary officers for quick response as a preventive measure.
“Farmers should contact veterinary officers conducting ring vaccination in various sub counties for a quick intervention when they spot any symptoms related to the disease,” he said.
He pointed out that so far 60 per cent of the total 430,000 head of cattle have been vaccinated by ring vaccination.
He however noted there was no cause for alarm as the situation was under control.