Virudhunagar, The Virudhunagar district administration has launched a major vaccination drive to protect livestock from the highly contagious Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD). Over 1.45 lakh cows and buffaloes across the district will be vaccinated as part of the initiative scheduled to begin on July 2 and continue until July 22.
The campaign, led by the Department of Animal Husbandry, aims to safeguard the health of livestock and prevent potential outbreaks during the monsoon season, when the risk of FMD transmission typically increases.
Officials confirmed that veterinary teams have been mobilized across all panchayats and municipalities to ensure complete coverage. Farmers are being urged to cooperate with field staff and present their animals for vaccination.
“We are fully prepared with the required vaccine stock and have trained teams ready. This preventive measure is crucial not only for the health of animals but also for the economic stability of farmers who depend on dairy and livestock,” said a senior veterinary officer from the district.
FMD is a viral disease that affects cloven-hoofed animals like cows, buffaloes, sheep, and goats. It causes fever, blisters in the mouth and hooves, excessive salivation, and can lead to decreased milk production and even death in severe cases. Regular vaccination is the most effective method to control the disease.
The department has also planned awareness sessions in local villages to educate farmers about FMD symptoms and the importance of early reporting.
This drive is part of the national livestock disease control programme and aligns with Tamil Nadu’s biannual vaccination plan. Authorities have set a target to achieve near-100% coverage in the district.
Farmers can contact their local veterinary dispensaries or village administrative officers for more details about the schedule in their area.
