BLACKLEG & RABIES ADVISORY #1 OF 2021
January 25, 2021
BLACKLEG & RABIES
ADVISORY #1 of 2021
The Belize Agricultural Health Authority (BAHA) in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Enterprise, Ministry of Health and Wellness and Belize Livestock Producers Association, once again takes this opportunity to advise livestock producers to vaccinate their livestock against Blackleg and Rabies if they have not been vaccinated in the last six months.
Blackleg is a highly fatal disease in cattle. In most cases an animal is found dead without showing any sign of previously being sick. The speed in which Blackleg kills usually makes individual treatment useless. It is caused by the bacteria Clostridium chauvoei that is found naturally in the soil. The first sign observed is usually lameness; loss of appetite, rapid breathing and the animal is usually depressed and has a high fever. The animal usually dies within 12 to 48 hours.
The occurrence is very likely after floods and the onset of the dry season. Blackleg is preventable by using the Clostridial vaccine. Farmers are encouraged to use the seven-way Blackleg vaccine available at most farm supply stores. As with all vaccines, it is of utmost importance that the cold chain be maintained.
Rabies is also a highly fatal disease currently affecting livestock with the potential of transmission to humans. Animal affected with rabies usually show nervous signs and farmers are advised to avoid contact with suspicious cases. Rabies is 100% preventable through vaccination.
Additional information can be obtained from livestock officers of the Department of Agriculture in the districts, BAHA animal health officers, Belize Livestock Producers Association and Registered Veterinarians.
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Central Farm, Cayo District, Belize, Central America
Tel: (501) 824 4872
