Kazungula District has been hit by a suspected outbreak of Contagious Bovine Pleuropneumonia (CBPP), resulting in the death of approximately 30 cattle in Moomba and Bombwe wards, veterinary officials have confirmed.
The outbreak, which has raised serious concerns among local farmers and livestock stakeholders, is believed to have started within the past few weeks, prompting swift action from district veterinary authorities. CBPP is a highly infectious bacterial disease that affects the lungs of cattle and can lead to severe economic losses if not contained quickly.
Veterinary officials on the ground have begun implementing emergency measures to contain the outbreak and prevent it from spreading to surrounding areas. These measures include the restriction of cattle movements, intensified surveillance, and the possible rollout of vaccination campaigns for at-risk livestock.
“The situation is being monitored closely, and we are doing everything within our capacity to contain the disease and ensure that it does not spread to other parts of the district,” said a veterinary officer involved in the response efforts.
Farmers in the affected wards have been urged to report any signs of illness in their cattle and to cooperate fully with veterinary staff as investigations and containment efforts continue.
Authorities are also calling on farmers to adhere to animal health regulations and to avoid the unauthorized movement of livestock, which is one of the major contributors to the spread of CBPP.
CBPP remains one of the most serious livestock diseases in sub-Saharan Africa, and timely intervention is crucial in mitigating its impact on local economies and food security. Further updates will be provided as the situation develops.
