Outbreak of anthrax: Over 2,000 ruminants vaccinated so far – Veterinary Service

The Upper East Regional Director of Veterinary Services has said over two thousand ruminants have been vaccinated so far as part of mass vaccination of all animals.

Livestock rearers and residents within a 7km radius of where there was an outbreak of anthrax have asked to report and cooperate with the Upper East Regional Veterinary office for vaccination.

A one month ban has been imposed on the movement of ruminants along the Eastern corridors of Upper East following the outbreak of anthrax disease.

Addressing the media in Bolgatanga, the Upper East Regional Director of Veterinary Services, Dr. Henry Nii Anang stated vaccination exercise is being carried out in all Municipal and District in order to prevent the spread of anthrax.

“757 sheep have also been vaccinated, while 514 goats have also been vaccinated as at 12 p.m. on Wednesday. So by the end of the day, the numbers of vaccinated animals would increase,” he added.

However, the Upper East Regional Minister, Mr. Stephen Yakubu also disclosed that the vaccination is free.

“So we have asked that they start the vaccination at 5:00 a.m. every morning before the animals leave their homes. They will be going to where the Fulanis are to also vaccinate their animals. The anthrax vaccine is usually not free, but government is helping us to make sure that everyone gets it for free,” Mr. Yakubu stated.