Haryana on high alert to prevent foot rot disease

The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Haryana, has intensified vigilance to prevent any possible outbreak of foot rot disease, which is currently affecting sheep and goats in the neighbouring state of Himachal Pradesh.

The state government issued an advisory on Friday, providing an update on the situation and the preventive measures being implemented in Haryana.

A department spokesperson said although no case had been reported in the state, the department was taking proactive steps to safeguard the livestock from the disease.

The disease, which leads to the loss of hooves in the affected animals, severely impacts their mobility and can cause substantial economic losses for shepherds and farmers. No vaccine is available for the disease, and only strict biosecurity measures can effectively prevent its spread.

The department issued directives for heightened precautions, particularly in areas bordering Himachal. Deputy Directors have been instructed to ensure the availability of potassium permanganate, hydrogen peroxide and povidone iodine in all Government Veterinary Hospitals and Government Veterinary Dispensaries across the state.

The department advised shepherds and farmers to remain vigilant by regularly inspecting their livestock for signs of lameness, rotten smell or hoof abnormalities.

He emphasised the importance of maintaining proper hygiene in animal houses and pastures and recommended avoiding the introduction of new animals into herds without proper quarantine and health checks.