Thai Far South contains FMD

SONGKHLA, THAILAND, November 30 (TNA) - All areas in Songkhla Province in the Thai Far South have been declared surveillant zones against foot and mouth disease (FMD), following outbreaks of the disease among local livestocks in four districts. Songkhla Governor Songpol Sawastham told journalists on Wednesday that he has already ordered all districts in Songkhla FMD surveillant zones, following outbreaks of FMD among local livestocks, namely cows, buffaloes, pigs, sheep and goats, in Sating Phra, Klong Hoy Khong, Hat Yai and Sadao Districts. The governor said he has also ordered a ban on all movements of livestocks, both live ones and carcasses,in order to contain outbreaks of FMD among local animals. Meanwhile, Dr. Weerachai Wirojsaengarun, Chief of Livestock Development Region 9, reported that outbreaks of FMD among local livestocks have been under control to a certain level and officials are speeding up vaccinating livestocks which have not yet contracted the disease. Dr. Weerachai suggested that local farmers closely monitor the condition of their farm animals and immediately report to livestock authorities for a probe if any suspected case is found, while ensuring no movements of infected animals elsewhere. For infected carcasses,Dr. Weerachai advised, they must be buried and their graves sprinkled with lime, or the livestock disposal taks be reported to and carried out by officials concerned. (TNA)