The commencement of the second phase of cattle vaccination in Taraba State has been officially announced by the state government.
Activities for the vaccination initiative kicked off in Sardauna LGA on Tuesday and were simultaneously launched in Taku, Gashaka, and Kurmi local councils within the state.
The need for this vaccination campaign arose following a recent outbreak of a cattle disease that resulted in the deaths of more than two thousand cows in Sardauna LGA.
During the flag-off event, the Commissioner of Agriculture and Food Security, Professor Nicholas Namessan Oliver, called for the cooperation of the state’s residents.
Representing the Commissioner, Dr. Sani Isah, the Assistant Director of Epidemiology at the Ministry, clarified that the primary goal of the second phase of the vaccination program is to provide widespread immunization to all livestock within the council and neighboring areas.
In his remarks, Mohammed Umar, the chairman of the LGA, who was represented by Salihu Abdulkarim, the leader of the legislative council, assured full support to the team of veterinary officers carrying out the vaccination exercise.
Alhaji Shehu Audu Baju, the Chief of Mambilla, pledged unwavering support to the team in their efforts to vaccinate all cattle scattered throughout the council.
Addressing the issue, the Divisional Veterinary Officer of the council, Godwin Mangbon, advised cattle herders to ensure the correct dosage of vaccines is administered, noting that haemorrhagic septicemia affects cattle and other ruminant animals due to factors like stress, hunger, and starvation.
Furthermore, he cautioned against the sale of counterfeit cattle vaccines, warning that individuals involved in such activities will face legal consequences.