Batang Regency Declares Five Sub-Districts as red Zones Amid PMK Outbreak
The Batang Regency government, through its Department of Food and Agriculture (Dinparperta), has identified five sub-districts as red zones due to the outbreak of Mouth and nail Disease (PMK). This highly contagious disease, which affects livestock, has prompted urgent measures to curb its spread and protect the region’s agricultural economy.
According to Syam Manohara, Head of Animal Husbandry and Animal Health in Batang Regency, two specialized teams have been deployed: a treatment team and a vaccination team. However, the current vaccine supply of 1,000 to 2,000 doses for the period from February to April is insufficient to cover the district’s cattle population of 17,000.
Affected Sub-Districts and Case Numbers
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The five sub-districts classified as red zones include Bawang wiht 14 cases, Tersono with 27 cases, Wonotunggal with 30 cases, Subah with 42 cases, and Warungasem with 12 cases. Simultaneously occurring, vaccines will be prioritized for sub-districts not yet affected by PMK, such as Gringsing, Banyuputih, Bandar, and Pecalungan.
| Sub-District | PMK Cases |
|——————|—————|
| Bawang | 14 |
| Tersono | 27 |
| Wonotunggal | 30 |
| Subah | 42 |
| Warungasem | 12 |
Impact on Livestock and Preventive Measures
The outbreak has already claimed the lives of three cows, with several goats and sheep also reported to be infected. To prevent further spread, the Batang Regency Government has implemented strict biosecurity measures, including isolating infected animals and closing the Limpung Animal Market after eight infected cattle were discovered.
Syam emphasized the importance of community involvement, urging farmers to report any signs of the disease in their livestock promptly. “We are committed to protecting farmers and ensuring livestock remain healthy,” he stated.
Vaccination Efforts and Challenges
Central Java has allocated 40,000 doses of the PMK vaccine, which are now being distributed across the region. However, the limited supply remains a meaningful challenge. “This number is far from adequate, given the population of cattle in Batang Regency reaching 17,000,” Syam explained.
Despite the outbreak, beef from infected animals can still be consumed, provided the innards, feet, and head are properly disposed of by burial.
Looking Ahead
The Batang Regency Government remains optimistic that these measures will control the PMK outbreak. by prioritizing vaccination, enforcing biosecurity protocols, and fostering community cooperation, they aim to safeguard both livestock and the livelihoods of local farmers.
For more data on the impact of PMK on livestock prices, read about the concerns of breeders in Kudus.
Stay informed and report any signs of PMK in your livestock to help prevent further spread. Together, we can protect our agricultural community.
Batang Regency’s Fight Against PMK: Insights from Veterinary Expert Dr. Arif Santoso
The recent outbreak of Mouth and Nail Disease (PMK) in Batang Regency has raised meaningful concerns among local farmers and authorities. Wiht five sub-districts already declared as red zones, the government has implemented urgent measures to contain the spread of this highly contagious livestock disease. To shed light on the situation, we spoke with Dr. Arif Santoso,a renowned veterinary expert specializing in infectious animal diseases,about the impact,preventive measures,and challenges faced in tackling this outbreak.
Understanding the PMK Outbreak in Batang Regency
Senior Editor: Dr. Santoso, thank you for joining us. Can you briefly explain what PMK is and why it’s such a significant threat to livestock?
Dr. Arif Santoso: Thank you for having me. Mouth and Nail Disease (PMK) is a highly contagious viral disease that affects cattle, goats, and sheep. It causes severe sores in the mouth and on the feet, leading to pain, difficulty eating, and, in severe cases, death. The disease spreads rapidly through direct contact,contaminated equipment,or even the air,making it a major concern for livestock farmers. In Batang Regency, the outbreak has already resulted in significant losses, including the deaths of several cows, goats, and sheep.
identifying the Red Zones
Senior Editor: Batang Regency has declared five sub-districts as red zones. Can you elaborate on the severity of the outbreak in these areas?
Dr. Arif Santoso: Absolutely. The affected sub-districts—Bawang, Tersono, Wonotunggal, Subah, and Warungasem—have reported a combined total of over 100 confirmed cases. Subah has seen the highest number of cases at 42, followed by Wonotunggal with 30. These areas are now under strict surveillance, and infected animals are being isolated to prevent further spread. The government is also prioritizing vaccination for unaffected sub-districts like Gringsing and Bandar to create a buffer zone.
Preventive Measures and Biosecurity Protocols
Senior Editor: What steps are being taken to prevent the further spread of PMK?
Dr. arif Santoso: The Batang Regency Government has implemented several critical measures. First, infected animals are being isolated to limit contact with healthy livestock. second,the Limpung Animal Market has been temporarily closed after eight infected cattle were discovered there. These actions, combined with strict biosecurity protocols, are essential to curb the outbreak. Additionally, farmers are being encouraged to report any signs of illness in their livestock promptly. Community involvement is crucial in containing this disease.
Vaccination Efforts and Challenges
Senior Editor: Vaccination is a key strategy in preventing PMK. How effective has this approach been so far, and what challenges remain?
Dr. Arif Santoso: Vaccination is indeed a cornerstone of PMK prevention. Central Java has allocated 40,000 doses, which are being distributed across the region. However, this number falls short given Batang Regency’s cattle population of 17,000.the limited supply is a significant challenge, and we need immediate action to secure more vaccines. Despite this, vaccination efforts in unaffected areas are showing promise in creating a protective barrier against the disease.
Safeguarding Livestock and Farmers
Senior Editor: What advice would you give to farmers in Batang Regency to protect their livestock and livelihoods?
Dr. Arif Santoso: Farmers must remain vigilant and report any signs of PMK, such as sores or lameness, to local authorities instantly. They shoudl also adhere to biosecurity measures,like isolating new animals and disinfecting equipment. While the outbreak is concerning, it’s critically important to note that beef from infected animals can still be consumed safely if the innards, feet, and head are properly disposed of by burial. By working together and following these guidelines, farmers can help protect their livestock and the broader agricultural community.
Looking Ahead
Senior Editor: What is the outlook for controlling the PMK outbreak in Batang Regency?
Dr.Arif Santoso: The situation remains challenging, but there’s reason for optimism. The concerted efforts of the government, farmers, and veterinary teams are making a difference. By prioritizing vaccination, enforcing biosecurity protocols, and fostering community cooperation, we can control the outbreak and safeguard both livestock and farmers’ livelihoods. Though, sustained support and resources will be critical to achieving this goal.
Conclusion
The PMK outbreak in Batang Regency underscores the importance of prompt action, community involvement, and strategic resource allocation. With experts like dr. Arif Santoso leading the charge, there’s hope that the region will overcome this crisis and emerge stronger. Stay informed, report any signs of illness in your livestock, and support efforts to protect our agricultural community.