By THE INDEPENDENT UG
Terego, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | Livestock farmers in Terego district are grappling with significant losses following the demise of 15 cattle due to a suspected outbreak of black quarter disease.
The areas most affected are Eretpea, Kulua, and Odravu villages in Ejoni Parish Uriama sub-county, as well as parts of Leju Town council. Residents in the affected areas report that the disease began wreaking havoc two weeks ago.
Simon Angupale, a livestock farmer in Eretpea village, Ejoni Parish, shared that he has lost two cows to the deadly disease. He further revealed that an infected animal loses body energy, appearing weak, and suddenly succumbs to death.
Ibrahim Adiga Juma, the councilor representing Ejoni Parish in Uriama sub-county, expressed concern that livestock farmers in his Parish are living in fear due to the devastation caused by the disease, posing a significant threat to the livelihoods of the farmers.
Black quarter animal disease, also known as black leg disease, is a severe acute, burning, and highly fatal ailment affecting cattle and sheep caused by Clostridium chauvoei. Typically, the onset is sudden, and a few animals may be found dead without premonitory signs. An infected animal exhibits acute, severe lameness, often affecting the hind legs, along with marked depression. Initially, there is a fever, but by the time clinical signs become apparent, body temperature may be normal or subnormal.
Kizito Drazua, the acting Terego District Veterinary officer, acknowledged receiving reports of the suspected black quarter disease. Dranzua mentioned that his team is prepared to visit the affected areas to investigate the suspected cases for appropriate action. In the meantime, he appealed to farmers to remain vigilant to prevent the further spread of the suspected disease to other parts of the district.
This latest outbreak follows a previous incident one and a half years ago when more than 10 animals in the district succumbed to a suspected Black Quarter disease in Terego.
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