Cattle plague/National Veterinary Authority: In 2025, 129,507 heads were vaccinated

Cattle plague/National Veterinary Authority: In 2025, 129,507 heads were vaccinated as part of a nationwide anthrax prevention programme aimed at protecting livestock and public health.

 A Nationwide Effort to Protect Livestock and Public Health

The National Veterinary and Plant Protection Authority has confirmed that more than 129,000 animals were vaccinated across the country in 2025 as part of an ongoing campaign to prevent the spread of cattle plague, commonly associated with anthrax. The large-scale vaccination drive highlights growing efforts by authorities to safeguard livestock farms and reduce the risk of transmission to humans.

Officials say the programme reflects a continued commitment to disease prevention, biosecurity, and cooperation between farmers and veterinary services, particularly as livestock diseases remain a serious threat to both agriculture and public health.

Cattle plague/National Veterinary Authority: In 2025, 129,507 heads were vaccinated

According to figures released by the National Veterinary and Plant Protection Authority, a total of 129,507 animals were vaccinated between January and December 2025. The campaign targeted multiple species, including cattle, sheep, pigs, and equines, all of which are vulnerable to anthrax infection under certain conditions.

The vaccinations were carried out under the authority’s annual Anthrax Control Programme, which is designed to prevent outbreaks and limit the spread of the disease in livestock farms nationwide. Officials say the programme plays a crucial role in maintaining animal health and ensuring the safety of food production systems.

Why Anthrax Remains a Serious Concern

Anthrax is a highly dangerous infectious disease caused by bacteria that can survive in soil for decades. While it primarily affects animals, it can also be transmitted to humans through direct contact with infected animals or contaminated animal products.

Veterinary experts warn that outbreaks can have devastating consequences if not detected early. Infected animals often die suddenly, and improper handling of carcasses can increase the risk of transmission. For this reason, authorities stress that prevention remains the most effective defence.

The National Veterinary and Plant Protection Authority has reiterated that avoiding contact with suspected animals and never opening animal carcasses are essential measures to protect both farmers and the wider public.

Farmers Urged to Strengthen Prevention Measures

Alongside the release of the vaccination data, the authority has renewed its call for farmers to strictly implement disease prevention measures on their farms. These include maintaining hygiene standards, monitoring animals for unusual symptoms, and reporting suspected cases immediately to veterinary services.

Officials say cooperation between farmers and veterinary professionals is critical for the early detection and containment of any potential outbreaks. Delayed reporting, they warn, can allow diseases such as anthrax to spread rapidly, increasing risks to neighbouring farms and communities.

A Long-Term Strategy for Animal Health

The annual vaccination programme forms part of a broader national strategy aimed at reducing livestock losses and protecting rural livelihoods. By vaccinating animals each year, authorities hope to minimise the presence of anthrax spores in high-risk areas and prevent recurring outbreaks.

Experts note that consistent vaccination, combined with farmer awareness and rapid response systems, significantly lowers the likelihood of large-scale disease events.

Protecting People as Well as Animals

Cattle plague/National Veterinary Authority: In 2025, 129,507 heads were vaccinated is not only a statistic, officials say, but a reminder of the close link between animal health and human safety. As zoonotic diseases continue to pose global risks, authorities stress that vigilance, prevention, and cooperation remain essential.

The National Veterinary and Plant Protection Authority has indicated that similar programmes will continue in the coming years, reinforcing its commitment to safeguarding livestock, public health, and the agricultural economy.