The outbreak of Contagious Nodule Dermatitis among cattle in the Al-Bayda municipality of Libya has surged to over 360 cases, with 39 livestock deaths.
According to Saleh Abu Mbarka, the Director of Animal Wealth Management in the Al-Jabal Al-Akhdar region, the disease has now spread to the Marj municipality, affecting more than 1,300 cattle and causing over 100 deaths.
In a press statement, he urgently appealed to the relevant authorities for support, emphasising the swift transmission and substantial prevalence of the disease.
The official noted that they have “taken all necessary precautions and are providing cattle owners with available safe medications.
We call on authorities to promptly assist us with medical equipment and supplies.”
He further urged government officials, including the Prime Minister and the Minister of Agriculture, to address this infectious threat, and take measures to safeguard the livestock industry.
Earlier this month, Abu Mbarka announced the detection of the first case of sheep pox in Al-Bayda, eastern Libya.
Abu Mbarka stated that this disease is the second type to be documented in the eastern region. This came following the earlier registration of lumpy skin disease among cattle.
Sheep breeders in the affected area have been urged to promptly seek assistance from the private sector, to provide the necessary treatment, despite the high cost and limited resources.
Abu Mbarka highlighted that infected cattle with lumpy skin disease have been isolated by each breeder. He emphasised the need for treatment to be made available through the private sector.
He pointed out the lack of awareness among breeders regarding disease control and prevention methods, as the disease is new to Libya and has spread rapidly.