Foot and Mouth Disease Outbreak Reported in Nyamira County, Kenya

An outbreak of foot and mouth disease has been reported in Nyamira County, Kenya, affecting at least 15 cattle across three wards - Nyansiongo, Esise, and Gesima. The Nyamira County government has taken immediate action to contain the spread of the highly contagious viral disease.

Alice Manoti, the County Agriculture Livestock and Fisheries CEC, announced on Wednesday that two major livestock markets in the affected areas have been closed.

"The affected markets are Metamaywa market in Borabu Subcounty and Keroka's Nyansira market in Masaba North Subcounty," Manoti stated. The movement of livestock in and out of Masaba North and Borabu sub-counties has also been banned until further notice.

To address the outbreak, the county administration has initiated measures to sensitize farmers on biosecurity and provide first aid using magadi salt for affected animals. Samples have been collected from the infected cattle and sent to the FMD Embakasi Laboratory for confirmation and identification of the specific virus strain. This will enable the immediate vaccination of healthy animals to prevent further spread.

Why this matters: Foot and mouth disease outbreaks can have severe economic consequences for livestock farmers and the agricultural sector. Swift containment measures are crucial to minimize the impact and protect the livelihoods of those dependent on livestock farming.

Manoti assured that "the reopening of the affected markets and movement of livestock will be announced once the disease is contained." The Nyamira County government is working diligently to control the outbreak and prevent further spread of the disease. Farmers in the affected areas have been advised to quarantine their animals and cooperate with the authorities to effectively manage the situation.

Key Takeaways

• Foot and mouth disease outbreak in Nyamira County, Kenya affecting 15 cattle.
• Two major livestock markets closed, livestock movement banned to contain spread.
• Measures taken: farmer sensitization, first aid, sample collection, vaccination.
• Outbreak can have severe economic impact on livestock farmers and sector.
• Authorities working to control outbreak and reopen markets once disease is contained.