BUBANZA, February 21st (ABP) – Foot-and-mouth disease remains a threat to cattle farming in some localities of Bubanza province (north-west Burundi) in recent times, according to the Provincial Bureau of the Environment, Agriculture and Livestock (BPEAE).
Data from BPEAE Bubanza show that, until early February, at least 120 cases of this bovine disease had already been detected. Among these cases, 7 died while others were treated and cured. This foot-and-mouth disease has occurred in six out of 15 zones of Bubanza province, namely Musigati, Kivyuka, Ntamba in Musigati commune, the Gihanga zone and commune, and in those of Rugazi and Muzinda in Rugazi commune. An infected cow has mouth ulcers, abscesses in the hooves, a fever that reaches 39°.
It is a viral disease; so far, there is no vaccine and veterinarians only treat the symptoms, the same source told a check by ABP.
Farmers in Bubanza province are called upon to strengthen hygiene in stables and surrounding areas, to avoid livestock movements because contamination of the disease occurs through contact. They are also appealed to remain vigilant and to report in real time, whenever cases of the disease occur.
Note that the Bubanza province has more than 52,288 cattle.