By THE INDEPENDENT UG
Mbarara, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | The Foot and Mouth Disease taskforce in Mbarara City has decided to partially lift the Foot and Mouth disease quarantine that was instituted two weeks ago to control the outbreak. The total livestock quarantine, imposed by Commissioner of Animal Health Dr. Rose Anna Ademun, led to control measures, including restrictions on the movement and sale of cattle and related products from affected areas.
James Mwesigye, the Resident City Commissioner and taskforce chairperson, reports that their efforts have successfully prevented the spread of the disease, and no new cases have been registered since the quarantine was imposed. The decision to partially lift the quarantine follows guidelines from the Ministry of Animal Husbandry.
According to Mwesigye, the guidelines stipulate that farmers can obtain authorization letters from farm owners, endorsed by the LC1 Chairperson and the City Veterinary Officer after verifying the farm. The partial lifting only allows Ruti City Abattoir to resume operations under strict surveillance and adherence to the guidelines.
Dr. Moses Amanyire, the City Veterinary Officer, emphasizes that the quarantine has not been fully lifted, and areas still affected by the disease cannot conduct any livestock business. Control measures include checkpoints with foot baths containing disinfectants, increased vigilance, and sensitization efforts involving all farmers with hoofed animals.
Priscah Mulongo, the City Deputy Mayor, directs the enforcement team in affected areas to intensify surveillance, while those allowed to reopen must strictly follow the guidelines.
Farmers, such as Samuel Mbangira from Nyakayojo Ward, appreciate the partial lifting of the quarantine, crediting it with containing the spread of Foot and Mouth Disease in their area due to adherence to regulations. However, some farmers, like Dan Musiime from Ruti village, express concerns about the challenge of illegal cattle movement at night, undermining efforts to contain the disease.
Frank Nabaasa, the Defence Secretary of Mbarara City Abattoir, welcomes the partial lifting, acknowledging that livestock business is their primary source of livelihood.
Mbarara City is among the 32 districts in the cattle corridor subjected to quarantine by the Commissioner of Animal Health after the Foot and Mouth Disease outbreak in November last year. Infected animals typically exhibit blisters on the mouth and feet, loss of appetite, fever, and reduced milk production.
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