July 27, 2023

Cambodia's Ministry of Agriculture focuses on animal health and disease prevention

Cambodia's Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries (MAFF) will continue to focus on animal health, combatting animal crime, and ensuring the traceability of animal products in the country, Khmer Times reported.

Across municipalities and provinces, officials have been actively implementing biosafety measures by conducting thorough disinfection of livestock farms, slaughterhouses, poultry outlets, and areas affected by animal diseases.

To effectively control and prevent the spread of infectious diseases, the officials have intensified their efforts in animal disease research. This involves conducting surveillance, tracking outbreaks, and collecting samples from sick or deceased animals and slaughterhouses.

A total of 7,218 samples have been taken for pathogen diagnosis, with a specific focus on bird flu, African swine fever (ASF), and Bovine herpesvirus-2 (BoHV-1).

Notably, samples from various regions in Cambodia, including Popeal, Ponhea Krek district, Tboung Khmum province; Tnaot commune, Kampong Ro district, Svay Rieng province; and Kork Por commune, Borey Chulsa district, Takeo province, have tested positive for lumpy skin disease.

Im Rachna, a spokesperson for the ministry, said cthat while there have been isolated cases of hemorrhagic septicemia, it has not become widespread. She dispelled rumours of many cattle dying from the virus and attributed some incidents to cattle consuming rainwater contaminated with pesticides. Additionally, the ministry actively educates farmers on infections and promotes cattle vaccination to safeguard their livestock.

Prum Vich, the director of the Veterinary and Production Office of Siem Reap Provincial Department of Agriculture, said that the incidence of disease among cattle in Siem Reap province remains negligible during the current rainy season. Continuous check-ups and proactive interventions are in place to address any emerging issues, and the province's officials actively educate cattle owners on vaccination measures to safeguard their herds and livelihoods.

-      Khmer Times