Increase in Foot and Mouth Disease Vaccine Dose to 3 This Year
The fight against foot and mouth disease in animals continues in Turkey with the implementation of a new vaccination program. Minister Yumaklı emphasized the importance of foot and mouth vaccination in preventing the spread of the disease and its negative impact on international trade and economic losses.
The minister highlighted the mandatory foot and mouth vaccination for the transportation of cattle between provinces and the support of calves within the scope of animal production. Routine vaccination against foot and mouth disease is carried out twice a year, in spring and autumn, and all precautions have been taken against the SAT-2 virus, including the application of vaccines produced by the Foot and Mouth Institute to the entire cattle population.
As part of the “Raid Vaccination Program,” a new vaccination initiative has been launched, providing three doses of foot-and-mouth disease vaccine to the cattle population. The first dose was administered on January 29, and the program will continue through March 31, 2024. Notably, no vaccine fee will be charged to producers, as the government aims to ensure widespread vaccination without financial burden.
Minister Yumaklı also outlined upcoming vaccination plans, targeting the Eid al-Adha period to re-vaccinate cattle and small ruminants across the country. The government plans to carry out an effective fight against foot-and-mouth disease, aiming to protect livestock from this economically damaging illness.
The ongoing efforts in Turkey reflect a commitment to animal health and welfare, aiming to mitigate the impact of foot and mouth disease on the agricultural sector and international trade.
