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A herd of buffaloes seen at New Chumoukedima area on Thursday.[/caption]
Eastern Mirror Desk
Dimapur, April 18: The recent epidemic in Medziphema area of Dimapur district, where several buffaloes were killed, is reported to be under control after tests proved the cause of death as Haemorrhagic Septicaemia.
This was confirmed by the deputy chief veterinary of Veterinary and Animal Husbandry department, Dr. K Thungchamo.
Speaking to Eastern Mirror, Thungchamo said that “everything is under control” and medical treatment is being provided to the buffaloes now. “After treatment, ring vaccination will be done in all neighbouring villages so it doesn’t spread,” he said adding that this could be easily prevented if vaccination is done ‘completely’ for three years.
He further informed that three quick response teams have been assigned to tend to the seven villages where the outbreak has occurred; and 21 other neighbouring villages where the ring vaccination will be given in the days to come to prevent it from spreading further.
Dr. Michael Imchen, VAS Veterinary Hospital, Dimapur informed that few buffalo deaths were also recently recorded in New Chumoukedima area and treatment began on Thursday. Imchen informed that the areas which have been affected are “endemic areas” making it prone to the deadly virus but affirmed that all areas are under control as of now.
When asked how it could be prevented, the doctor said that the biggest “stumbling block” is that animals are not confined to one area but left loose.
“When we try to give the treatment, the animals cannot be controlled and are all scattered which makes it easy to spread the disease,” said Imchen.
According to the doctor, every year all the animals are gathered by the end of April so it will be easier to give treatment and vaccination. He said that the villagers are being sensitised on keeping their cattle and livestock confined. He further informed that doctors and staff from the department have been stationed at the affected areas.
It may be also mentioned that the disease occurred during the same time in 2016 in Peren, killing several buffaloes.