Mzimba reports 86 foot and mouth disease cases

M’Mbelwa District Council has reported 86 cases of foot and mouth disease in four extension planning areas (EPAs).

The four EPAs are Luwerezi, Gugu, Manyamula and Mjinge where 22 kraals have been affected.

In an interview on Saturday, Mzimba district commissioner Rodney Simwaka said they have temporarily banned slaughtering, movement and marketing of livestock to contain the outbreak.

He said: “Detailed investigations are underway to establish the magnitude of the situation.

“Veterinary officers have embarked on a community sensitisation campaign and surveillance to ensure early detection and response to contain the disease.”

Chauncy Jere, a farmer from Kapopo Mhlanga commended the council for putting in place preventive measures.

“I urge my fellow farmers to adhere to the preventive measures to save many animals. As livestock farmers, our livelihoods are under threat, therefore, we should cooperate,” he said.

A goat seller at Raiply Trading Centre Bupe Mwafongo, bemoaned the ban on meat sales.

 “We survive on meat sales and the ban will affect my livelihood. I pray people comply with the preventive measures to contain the disease,” he said.

In September this year, Ministry of Agriculture announced that Neno District had registered 172 cases of foot and mouth disease.

The announcement came after Nsanje had also reported 929 cases of foot and mouth disease in 115 kraals in traditional authorities Mbenje, Mlolo and Tengani.

Foot and mouth disease is a highly contagious viral disease that affects cattle, goats, sheep and pigs.

Two months ago, M’Mbelwa District Council also suspended slaughtering, movements and marketing of pigs followingthe outbreak of African Swine Fever in the district.