The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has begun a widespread immunization campaign against the fatal Anthrax disease, which was verified in one of the FCT's neighboring states.
Abubakar Sadeeq, acting secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat, who flagged off the Mass Anthrax Vaccination Exercise at the FCT Grazing Reserve in Patkon Kore, Gwagwalada area council, said the action reflects the FCTA's proactiveness and readiness to combat the disease, which not only affects animals but humans as well, with a very high fatality rate.
Sadeeq stated that since the outbreak was announced in Ghana earlier this year, the administration has conducted a series of outreach campaigns to educate residents, particularly livestock owners and butchers, about the Anthrax disease, as well as effective measures they can take to protect themselves and their animals from contracting and spreading the disease.
“Furthermore, as a demonstration of its commitment to preventing an outbreak and ensuring public health safety, I am glad to inform you that the Permanent Secretary FCT, Mr. Olusade Adesola has given approval for the purchase of large quantities of Anthrax vaccines which scientists have identified as most effective in preventing the disease.
“The Secretariat has in the same vein been directed to take the vaccination exercise to all the six area councils of the FCT and to ensure that our Veterinary Doctors who have already been mobilised will reach the 62 wards in the FCT