Andhra Pradesh Launches Statewide Free Door-to-Door FMD Vaccinations

Officials describe vaccination as the key defense against a highly contagious livestock virus that threatens rural incomes.

Overview

The campaign runs March 16 to April 29 under the National Animal Disease Control Programme, with a main round from March 16 to April 14 and a follow-up from April 15 to April 29 for remaining animals and booster doses.
The state has distributed 8.369 million (83.69 lakh) vaccine doses to districts to support the drive.
Animal Husbandry staff will visit households to vaccinate all cattle and buffaloes older than four months at no cost.
Director of Animal Husbandry T. Damodar Naidu appealed for farmer cooperation to maximize coverage and avert economic losses.
Officials warn FMD is highly contagious, spreads via wounds and contaminated fodder, feed, water, dung and urine, and can cause high fever, mouth and hoof blisters, udder swelling, lameness, calf deaths and abortions.