Malaysia: livestock vaccination in Kuala Terengganu to curb HS outbreak

The Terengganu Veterinary Service Department (JPV) is vaccinating cattle and buffaloes to prevent the spread of haemorrhagic septicaemia (HS) in Kuala Terengganu. An outbreak of the disease was reported in the area on April 7, leading to the implementation of control and quarantine measures. According to Dr Anun Man, Director of the JPV, 25% of the livestock living near the outbreak site has been vaccinated. The main concern is that the outbreak could affect Aidiladha sacrificial rites, as livestock can be moved only with a health permit. This could increase the risk of illegal imports to replace local cattle for the sacrifices. Dr Anun said that free-range farming of buffaloes in Terengganu posed a particular challenge for the JPV because it had to provide pens for quarantine and vaccination. She added that buffaloes are at a higher risk of HS, especially in extreme weather conditions.