Anthrax: Lagos Govt Begins Free Vaccination Of Animals

The Lagos State Government on Friday said it has begun free vaccination of animals against the deadly anthrax disease which has broken out in the country.

Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture, Mrs. Olatokunbo Emokpae, in a statement, said in order to forestall the prevalence of Anthrax disease, the Ministry had enhanced the surveillance of abattoirs and slaughter slabs in the State.

“Anthrax, an infectious disease caused by Bacillus anthracis, affects domesticated animals such as cows, pigs, camels, sheep, goats, and wild animals. Human beings who come in contact with infected animals can also get infected with the disease.

“The vaccination of domesticated animals free of charge will also be conducted alongside the inspection exercise,” she said.

Emokpae listed the symptoms of the Anthrax disease in infected animals to include sudden death, bleeding from natural orifices – mouth, ear, nose, anus and vulva, in female animals.

She explained that the blood discharge is usually dark and that the dead animal should be disintegrated quickly.

“Members of the public must not go near or touch animals suspected to have contacted the disease and should immediately report cases of symptoms in animals to the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture Director of Veterinary Services on 08023427594, 08180703010 or to the Veterinary Epidemiologist on 08023328244.

“The State Government solicits the cooperation of animal owners as Veterinary Personnel vaccinate animals,” she stated.

July 28, 2023