Health Official in Toro Local Government Area of Bauchi State says no fewer than 200 cattles have been infected with the foot and mouth disease, an highly infectious disease which can be contracted by humans.
“The foot and mouth disease is a highly contagious viral infectious disease of cattle, sheep, goats and pigs. The virus can be harboured for periods in the nasopharynx of wild fauna (respiratory system of the body). The disease is mainly transmitted through inhalation or ingestion of the virus from contaminated feeds and direct contact with infected animals,” he said.
The veterinary officer said the incubation period is on average three to eight days after the animals are infected with virus, adding that infected animals would the discharge the virus through the saliva, rupture of vesicles and blisters on the tongue and feet.
Adamu, who advised the people of the area to be vigilant, said the disease can also affect human beings who might come in close contact with infected animals. He urged the state government to urgently take the necessary measure to stop the spread of the disease.
Adamu who also spoke on the Bird Flu which has now been reported in 17 states across the federation noted that airborne disease has killed 50 birds in the area within one month.