🚨 Livestock Quarantine Declared in Kisumu County After Foot and Mouth Disease Outbreak
Emergency Measure: Kisumu County imposes strict livestock movement ban following Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak, affecting cattle, goats, sheep and pigs across the region.
Kisumu County has been placed under a strict livestock quarantine following the outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), a highly contagious viral infection that affects cloven-hoofed animals like cattle, goats, sheep, and pigs.
Movement Restrictions
The notice, issued by County Veterinary Officer Dr. Treza Opiyo, prohibits:
- Movement of cattle, goats, sheep, pigs, donkeys and related products
- Livestock transportation through public roads
- Unauthorized slaughter or sale in open markets
All movements require written permission from the county veterinary department.
Disease Control Measures
Affected animals that die must be:
- Buried at least four feet deep, or
- Incinerated properly
The cost of disposal will be borne by the livestock owner. All movements must follow strict disinfection procedures.
Legal Consequences
The quarantine is enforced under the Animal Diseases Act. Violations may lead to prosecution with penalties including fines or imprisonment.
Economic Impact
While rarely fatal, FMD causes:
- Drastic milk and beef production drops (up to 80% reduction)
- Trade bans affecting livestock exports
- Long recovery periods (weeks to months)
- Secondary infections in weakened animals
Farmer Action Plan
- Do not move animals without veterinary clearance
- Report symptoms: fever, blisters, excessive salivation, lameness
- Implement strict biosecurity measures on farms
- Monitor official county communications for updates