The Yobe State Government has unveiled an ambitious plan to vaccinate approximately 7 million animals against anthrax. The vaccination drive will primarily target four local government areas that share borders with the Niger Republic, namely Machina, Yusufari, Yunusari, and Geidam.
Dr. Yusuf Maina, the Director of Veterinary Services at the Yobe Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources, announced this crucial initiative during the program’s flag-off ceremony in Damaturu.
The livestock earmarked for vaccination encompass a diverse range of animals, including camels, cattle, sheep, and goats.
The decision to conduct this extensive vaccination campaign was prompted by the counsel of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development.
Given the regular movement of livestock across international borders, the federal ministry advised all states sharing borders with neighboring countries to take proactive measures in preventing the outbreak of anthrax.
During his speech at the event, Dr. Maina emphasized the importance of the vaccination drive and urged the people residing in the target areas to make the most of this opportunity by getting their animals vaccinated.
Anthrax, caused by the gram-positive, rod-shaped bacteria Bacillus anthracis, is a highly infectious and potentially fatal disease that poses a significant threat to both domestic and wild animals.
The bacteria naturally occur in soil and can be transmitted to livestock through contaminated pastures and water sources.