Kisumu county has imposed an immediate quarantine on the movement of livestock following the confirmed outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease, a highly contagious viral infection that affects cloven-hoofed animals.
In an official notice to the county commissioner, county director of veterinary services Dr Treza Opiyo announced sweeping containment measures to curb the spread of the disease.
“No animals or their products shall be moved into or out of the affected areas unless written permission has been granted by the Director of Veterinary Services or the relevant veterinary officer,” the directive states.
It relates to cattle, goats, sheep, pigs and donkeys, as well as their products.
The guidelines further require that any livestock granted movement clearance must first undergo rigorous disinfection in line with established veterinary protocols.
To prevent further transmission, all livestock in the restricted zones must be kept away from public roads and highways, avoiding contact with people, vehicles and other animals.
Authorities have also advised that no individuals will be allowed to leave the quarantined area without complying with all necessary veterinary precautions, a move aimed at stopping human-facilitated spread of the disease.
In the event of livestock deaths caused by FMD, strict carcass disposal measures must be followed.
Dr Opiyo said such animals must either be buried at a minimum depth of four feet or incinerated, with the responsibility falling on the owner.
The quarantine enforcement is anchored in the Animal Diseases Act, which mandates that once a case is detected, administrative officers must alert all livestock owners, farm operators and surrounding communities in the affected subcounty.
Dr Opiyo warned that any disregard for the directive will be treated as a legal offence.
“Failure to follow orders or carrying out any prohibited actions as outlined by veterinary officers or inspectors constitutes a violation and will attract penalties as provided under the law,” she said.
Foot and Mouth Disease, although rarely fatal, is notorious for its rapid spread and economic toll.
Infected animals often suffer weight loss, reduced milk production and may be rendered unproductive.
The outbreak also triggers livestock trade restrictions, movement bans and significant veterinary intervention costs.
The county veterinary department is urging livestock farmers, herders and traders to fully comply with the quarantine rules to help contain the outbreak and safeguard herds across the region.
Surveillance teams have been deployed across Kisumu to monitor the situation and ensure strict enforcement of the control measures.
