Shimla (Agency): A dangerous outbreak of a highly contagious animal disease known as the Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR), or the ‘sheep and goat plague’, has struck the tribal district of Lahaul and Spiti in Himachal Pradesh. This deadly epidemic has resulted in the death of 60 sheep and goats while approximately 200 more have fallen ill, according to local officials.
This virulent disease, causing widespread distress among the local shepherds, has specifically targeted three identified flocks within the Hadsar area, near the Chamba border. Dr. Anurag, the leading veterinarian on a dedicated four-member team tasked with managing this outbreak, reported to PTI that the infected animals are experiencing symptoms such as diarrhea and pneumonia. He also noted an accompanying nasal discharge leading to breathing complications, particularly problematic in high altitude areas.
Apart from treating the infected animals and equipping the owners with necessary medical kits, the veterinary team is also working diligently to increase awareness among local shepherds. They are striving to inform them about the disease, its symptoms, and crucial preventative measures.
Dr. Amitabh Thakur, Deputy Director of Keylong’s animal husbandry department, organized the medical team last Friday. Their mandate was to deliver medical aid to the nomadic tribal Gaddi shepherds tending to the sick animals. However, reaching the remote highland pastures presented a unique challenge. The team had to navigate through dense forests intersected by nullahs (ravines), all the while remaining vigilant against potential wild animal attacks.
Despite the challenges, the swift action of the department has managed to instill a sense of relief among the shepherds. They now have newfound confidence in the authorities’ commitment to curb the spread of this disease, ensuring their livestock’s safety and their own livelihood.
