Maseru, Jan. 14 — The Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition will on Friday collect and distribute medication for lumpy skin disease from unaffected districts to those affected in a bid to combat the spread of this disease.
This was disclosed by the Minister of Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition Mr. Thabo Mofosi at the press conference held in Maseru on Wednesday, saying at least 448 cattle have been infected with this disease and 19 have died.
He said the disease was reported in the districts of Leribe, Berea, Botha-Bothe, Maseru, Mafeteng, Mohale’s Hoek and Thaba- Tseka, saying it has so far not been reported in Quthing, Qacha’s Nek and Mokhotlong.
“The Ministry will collect medication from these three districts and the medication will also be purchased immediately when factories which supply it reopen as we have completed the procurement process” he said.
He added that the Ministry has already made a work plan and veterinary doctors will be deployed at most affected areas and vaccinate cattle to minimize the risk and spread of this disease, appealing to the public to refrain from eating livestock which was ill.
He reminded that this disease primarily infects cattle and water buffaloes, saying it is caused by a virus, which is spread by mosquitoes from one infected animal to another as well as through direct contact although chances of infection are low.
He indicated that due to heat and moisture during this period of the year, mosquitoes produce more and spread diseases, mentioning symptoms of lumpy skin disease such as skin lumps, salivary secretions, fever and swelling amongst others.
However, he stated that there is no specific cure for this disease as it’s a viral infection but could be treated by medication which boosts the immune system.
He therefore urged farmers to isolate infected cattle from others, adding that those infected should be kept in shaded environments, be given food and water and should not be used for any form of work.
Meanwhile reports indicate that 33 cattle were affected in Berea, Leribe 142, Botha-Bothe 36, Maseru 63, Mafeteng 45, Mohale’s Hoek 28 and Thaba- Tseka one.
ends/LP/BM
