Rivers begins free anthrax vaccination campaign for livestock

The Rivers State Ministry of Agriculture has commenced a free anthrax vaccination campaign across all 23 local government areas to protect livestock, prevent disease spread, and ensure food security.

The campaign, which runs until February 17, was launched at the Livestock Demonstration Farms in Rivers State University, Port Harcourt, with participation from farmers and veterinary experts.

A statement from the state Ministry of Health confirmed that Governor Siminalayi Fubara approved the initiative as part of efforts to safeguard public health and food safety.

The statement reads: “The vaccination campaign, scheduled from February 10 to 17, follows recent anthrax outbreaks in Niger and Zamfara states. The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security previously confirmed cases in a mixed livestock farm, raising concerns about possible spread.”

Governor Siminalayi Fubara emphasized his commitment to food security and public health, directing a state-wide vaccination to prevent any potential outbreak in Rivers State.

Anthrax, a zoonotic disease, can affect both animals and humans, spreading through direct contact, consumption of contaminated meat, or inhalation of spores.

To contain its spread, State Commissioner for Agriculture, Victor Kii, urged livestock farmers to cooperate with veterinary doctors to ensure their animals are vaccinated.