THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Dairy farmers are growing increasingly concerned after over a thousand cattle across nine districts were diagnosed with foot-and-mouth disease. The disease has been detected in 51 locations across Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Malappuram, Kasaragod and Kannur districts. Out of the 1043 infected cattle, 61 including 41 calves have died in July.

The disease appears to have been introduced through cattle brought in from outside the state. In response, the Animal Welfare Department has taken measures to screen cattle at all 19 checkpoints. The Chief Disease Investigation Officer in Palode has led efforts to collect samples from the affected areas subsequently conducting diagnoses. These samples have been dispatched to the central laboratory in Bhubaneswar for further analysis regarding foot-and-mouth disease.

In contrast to previous years the disease in this instance has been attributed to Asia 1, A serotype viruses. Severe symptoms have been observed particularly in calves.

Deadly viral disease

Foot and mouth disease is a disease caused by a virus. Symptoms encompass a significant decrease in milk production, instances of miscarriage, heightened calf mortality rates and mastitis.

Transmission of the disease

Foot-and-mouth disease can be transmitted to animals through contact with infected or carrier animals. This includes exposure to their oral secretions, excrement, skin, milk, fodder, hay and barn materials in affected regions. Additionally, the disease can be spread through contaminated milk containers, vehicles, handlers and milkers, as well as through the air and water. It's crucial to note that foot and mouth disease does not pose a risk of transmission to humans.

The Director of Animal Husbandry has been tasked with taking preventive measures to control the disease and ensure treatment. The vaccine has been delivered to veterinary hospitals. Owners of dead cattle will be compensated.

- Minister J. Chinchurani.