Dr Patrick Kuma Aboagye
The Regional Public Health Emergency Management Committee in the Upper East Region has reinforced restrictions on movement of animals in the area.
This was after extensive deliberations on June 26 on the ongoing anthrax outbreak situation in the region when the committee unanimously agreed to continue imposing certain restrictions.
The initial ban on the movement of animals including cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, and donkeys remains in force. However, animals from neighbouring countries to the Upper East Region (Burkina Faso, Togo, and Niger) are allowed to pass through the region after being certified by veterinary officers at the points of entry.
The ban on slaughtering, selling, and consuming meat and meat products from livestock remains in force as well.
However, individuals who have vaccinated their animals with certified anthrax vaccines before June 20, 2023, are allowed to slaughter them under the strict supervision of veterinary and environmental health officers, preferably at designated slaughterhouses or places certified by veterinary officers.
All dead animals must be reported to the nearest veterinary officers, community volunteers, assembly members, and environmental health officers for investigations. Community members are being advised to avoid eating sick or dead animals.
The committee will meet again to review the situation and updates will be provided as necessary. The cooperation of all residents is necessary for the successful containment of the anthrax outbreak in the region.
By Vincent Kubi