OIE Concerned By The Effects Of Rift Valley Fever
GLOBE - The World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) monitors the situation caused by Rift Valley Fever outbreaks which occurred over the last few weeks in Africa , particularly in Sudan .The OIE recalls the importance of the use of vaccination of susceptible animals as a control measure. This recommendation of the OIE has been recently re-endorsed by OIE national Delegates of Africa and Middle East during the workshop on RVF held in Cairo ( Egypt ), on 13- 15 June 2007 .
Animal vaccination and, when possible, vector control need to be applied well in advance of expected risk periods for vector activity and occurrence of the disease.
Outbreaks of RVF have a significant impact on the trade of ruminants especially from the Horn of Africa to the Middle East with a consequent significant loss of income for livestock owners in the affected areas and countries. By recommending the correct implementation of standards and guidelines, the OIE stands for safe trade and sets against unjustified sanitary barriers.
Should countries at risk make the request, the OIE would be in favour of a quick vaccination campaign of animals to be carried out in relevant areas with the support of the international community.
TheCattleSite News Desk