MINISTRY INTENSIFIES AWARENESS ON ANTHRAX PREVENTION

 MINISTRY INTENSIFIES AWARENESS ON ANTHRAX PREVENTION

          Determined to prevent the incursion of anthrax disease that affects animals and poses a risk to humans, the Ogun State Ministry of Agriculture is strengthening surveillance and stakeholders' engagement as officials visit cattle markets and slaughter slabs across the State.

       

   Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mr. Samuel Adeogun, who led the Risk/Communication team on a sensitisation visit to Olorunisola cattle market, Isheri and Atokun International market in Ifo and Yewa North Local Government Areas respectively, said the campaign was necessary to educate the people about the disease and what they needed to do in case of an outbreak.

          Mr. Adeogun stressed the all-encompassing posture of the activated Emergency Operation Center, which comprised critical stakeholders, to protect public health against the disease, saying compliance by the people dealing with cattle and animals that could be affected by the disease would help prevent losses in business and investment of the citizens.

          Contributing, the State Director of Veterinary Services, Dr. Taiwo Jolaoso, represented by Dr. Adeniyi Tade, maintained that educating stakeholders on the disease was crucial, noting that the State was known for proactiveness, as it continues awareness on prevention of the disease.

          In his presentation, a veterinarian, Dr. Gbenga Afolabi, said the disease was zoonotic in nature, as it affects humans and animals, saying early detection and prompt medical attention were important, as preventive measures such as avoiding contact with infected animals or products, proper cooking of meat, good hygiene, among others should abide by.

          Contributing, the representative of the World Health Organisation (WHO), Mrs. Afolake Ogunlaja, emphasised early reportage of affected animals to prevent the spread of the disease.

          In their various remarks, the Seriki Hausawa of Awori, Olorunisola Cattle market, Isheri, Alhaji Mohammadu Badamasi and Seriki Fulani, Atokun International market, Alhaji Ibrahim Usman, appreciated the present administration for the awareness which they said was apt, promising that they would ensure compliance and adhere to all preventive measures, so as to prevent an outbreak.

 

Morolayo Fadairo,

Press Officer, Ministry of Agriculture