National Telescope national telescope newspaper
The Rivers State Ministry of Agriculture has launched a free anthrax vaccination campaign across all 23 local government areas to safeguard livestock and enhance food security.
The initiative, which runs until February 17, was flagged off at the Livestock Demonstration Farms in Rivers State University, Port Harcourt, with farmers and veterinary experts participating in the initial phase.
A statement from the Ministry of Health confirmed that Governor Siminalayi Fubara approved the campaign as part of broader efforts to protect public health and prevent the spread of anthrax.
“The vaccination campaign, scheduled from February 10 to 17, is a proactive measure following recent anthrax outbreaks in Niger and Zamfara states,” the statement read.
It added that the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security had earlier confirmed cases on a mixed livestock farm, raising concerns over potential transmission to other regions.
“In line with Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s policy on food security and food safety, His Excellency has directed and approved a state-wide vaccination drive to prevent any anthrax outbreak in Rivers State,” the statement added.
Anthrax is a zoonotic disease that affects both animals and humans, spreading through direct contact, consumption of contaminated meat, or inhalation of spores.
The state Commissioner for Agriculture, Victor Kii, called on livestock farmers to collaborate with veterinary doctors to ensure their animals are vaccinated.
“The government is committed to preventing anthrax in Rivers State. We urge all livestock farmers to take advantage of this free vaccination to protect their animals and the public,” he said.
The initiative aligns with the state’s broader agricultural and public health policies, ensuring safer livestock production and reducing the risk of foodborne diseases.
