Lagos Begins Free Vaccination Of Animals To Curb Anthrax Disease

Lagos State government has revealed that it has commenced free vaccination of animals in the state to forestall prevalence of the Anthrax disease in the state.

 The Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture Mrs. Olatokunbo Emokpae, who disclosed this to newsmen said the move is to forestall the prevalence of Anthrax disease.

According to her, the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture has enhanced the surveillance of abattoirs and slaughter slabs in the state.

‘’Anthrax, an infectious disease caused by Bacillus anthracis, affects domesticated animals such as cows, pigs, camels, sheep, goats, and wild animals. Human beings who come in contact with infected animals can also get infected with the disease.

‘’The vaccination of domesticated animals free of charge will also be conducted alongside the inspection exercise.’’

Emokpae added that, ‘’Symptoms of the Anthrax disease in infected animals include sudden death, bleeding from natural orifices – mouth, ear, nose, anus and vulva, in female animals. The blood discharge is usually dark and the dead animal will disintegrate quickly.

‘’Members of the public must not go near or touch animals suspected to have contracted the disease and should immediately report cases of symptoms in animals to the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture Director of Veterinary Services.’’

The state government solicits the cooperation of animal owners as Veterinary Personnel vaccinates animals.