Central, Arunachal teams intensify measures to contain FMD outbreak

Joint teams comprising the central government and the state of Arunachal Pradesh have intensified efforts to contain an outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) in the Dibang Valley region. Officials confirmed on Sunday that the situation is being managed through coordinated action involving multiple agencies, including the State Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Department, Rapid Response Teams (RRTs), the district administration, and a visiting central team. The focus has been on treating affected animals, conducting surveillance, and implementing disease control strategies. The response began after an RRT from Itanagar reached Anini on August 8, bringing essential medicines and initiating containment procedures. Following this, three additional RRTs were formed and deployed locally. On August 11, the District Informatics Officer from Tezu in the Lohit district joined the effort, leading field visits, epidemiological assessments, and sample collection activities. A high-level central team, headed by Joint Commissioner Dr V K Teotia, arrived in the district on August 13 and conducted extensive field assessments over two days, covering areas such as Acheso, Angrim Valley, Aropo, Chegu Camp, Mipi Circle, Maro, 9 Kilo, and Matu Camp. During their visit, the central team engaged with local stakeholders, including Mithun owners, Gaon Buras (village heads), and members of the Panchayati Raj Institutions. They treated infected animals, distributed medicines, collected diagnostic samples from Mithuns, pigs, and goats, and performed post-mortem examinations. The team also visited the Indo-Tibetan Border Police camp at Acheso, where they collected blood samples from goats and provided information on disease epidemiology, biosecurity protocols, and public health precautions. Inspections were carried out at key facilities such as the District Veterinary Office, the Veterinary Dispensary, and the Cattle Breeding Farm in Anini. Local authorities have shown strong support for the containment operations. Anini MLA Mopi Mihu contributed vital medicines and logistical support, pledging full administrative assistance to safeguard the livelihoods of farmers and Mithun owners. Dibang Valley Zilla Parishad Chairperson Sadhu Mihu and Acheso-Angrim Valley Zilla Parishad Member Eta Mihu accompanied the visiting experts during field surveys, helping to ensure effective community engagement. The central team left Anini on Sunday, taking with them collected samples and specimens for further analysis in advanced laboratories. According to Dr D Riba, the District Veterinary Officer, the RRTs will continue to operate in the district until the outbreak is fully contained. Additional teams may be deployed if needed. The Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Department emphasized that FMD vaccinations are administered twice a year and that immunization remains the primary defense against the disease. Livestock and Mithun owners have been encouraged to participate in upcoming vaccination campaigns, report suspected cases immediately, and follow strict biosecurity and waste management guidelines. The outbreak highlights the importance of maintaining vigilance and cooperation among all stakeholders to prevent the spread of FMD. With continued efforts from both central and state authorities, along with active participation from local communities, there is hope that the situation can be brought under control swiftly. The central team’s departure marks a transition phase in the containment strategy, with ongoing monitoring and intervention planned for the coming weeks.