Kargil, July 09: Chief Animal Husbandry Officer (CAHO) Kargil, Dr. Gulzar Hussain, conducted a comprehensive assessment visit to Drass Subdivision on Monday to evaluate the current status of the Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak affecting livestock in the region. The visit aimed to review the measures being implemented to control the spread of the disease.
Dr. Hussain held crucial meetings with Block Veterinary Officer (BVO) Drass, Dr. Mohd Amine, and the dedicated field staff actively engaged in managing the FMD outbreak on the ground. During these discussions, BVO Drass provided an overview of the situation, affirming that due to the diligent efforts of the veterinary team, the outbreak is currently under control.
The field staff has been executing rigorous control measures, including daily monitoring and treatment of affected animals across the highland pastures. These efforts have proven effective in containing the disease despite the challenging terrain and harsh weather conditions.
Dr. Amine highlighted the necessity for additional protective equipment such as masks and gloves to ensure the safety and health of the veterinary team while handling infected animals. In response, CAHO Dr. Hussain assured prompt issuance of the requested supplies, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding the field staff’s well-being.
Community awareness and engagement were underscored as crucial in preventing the spread of FMD. Outreach activities will soon be organized to educate livestock owners on best practices for disease prevention, with fund requisition already initiated for these initiatives.
Expressing appreciation for the tireless efforts of the field staff, CAHO Dr. Hussain reaffirmed his commitment to supporting them with necessary resources and guidance. He acknowledged the proactive approach of the veterinary team in managing the outbreak and preventing future occurrences.
Furthermore, during his visit, CAHO Dr. Hussain inspected the old building of the Veterinary Complex in Drass, slated for dismantling to pave the way for the construction of a new block for the veterinary hospital. Funds for this development have already been allocated to the concerned executing agency.
The visit concluded with CAHO Dr. Hussain expressing gratitude to BVO Drass and the entire field staff for their dedication and hard work in safeguarding the health of livestock in Drass amidst the FMD outbreak.
This proactive assessment and commitment underscore CAHO Kargil’s efforts to ensure effective disease control measures and infrastructure development in the region.
