The Abia government has deployed veterinary teams to all 17 local government areas to vaccinate farm animals against anthrax, a deadly bacterial zoonotic disease.

Commissioner for Agriculture Cliff Agbeze confirmed this on Thursday at the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Umuahia, during the official launch of the vaccination.

Mr Agbeze stated the campaign became necessary following a recent anthrax outbreak in cattle in Nasarawa, reported by the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, Abuja.

He explained that anthrax poses serious economic and public health risks, affecting animals and humans, with high rates of illness and death if not swiftly contained.

The commissioner said the vaccination campaign was Abia’s rapid response to prevent the spread of the dangerous disease within the state’s borders.

Governor Alex Otti approved the mass vaccination of cattle, sheep, and goats to safeguard public health and ensure the state’s agricultural sector remains safe.

Mr Agbeze urged livestock farmers to present their animals for free vaccination, which will take place between March 21 and April 3 across the state.

Ijeoma Aguwa, permanent secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, represented Mr Agbeze at the launch event held on the university premises.

The dean of veterinary medicine, Cosmas Ogbu, said the college is ready to support the ministry’s efforts through collaborative veterinary services.

Director of Veterinary Services Martins Okojie thanked the governor for approving the vaccination, which he described as critical for the state’s safety.

Mr Okojie also appreciated the vice chancellor, Maduebibisi Iwe, and the veterinary faculty for their valuable support of the ministry’s work.

(NAN)