Ondo Farmers Urged to Vaccinate Livestock Amid PPR Outbreak

Farmers in Ondo State have been urged to vaccinate their livestock against Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR), commonly known as goat plague, as an outbreak has been reported in the region. Dr. Adebayo Ehinmowo, from the Veterinary Services Ministry, disclosed that the disease has already affected parts of the state and warned farmers against delaying vaccination.

The ministry is preparing for a statewide vaccination campaign, targeting 100,000 sheep and goats, although the actual livestock population may be higher due to the absence of recent census data. Ehinmowo explained that PPR is a viral disease that cannot be treated once contracted, making vaccination crucial.

Symptoms include nasal and ocular discharge, diarrhea, and weakness, particularly affecting younger animals. The federal government has supplied vaccines to Ondo State, and the ministry is awaiting logistical support to commence the vaccination exercise.

Farmers are encouraged to cooperate with veterinary officials and to purchase vaccines from private veterinary practitioners to ensure timely vaccination.