Over 1 million animals vaccinated in Darfur

Campaign provides immunity against five major diseases affecting livestockOne million animals in Darfur and almost a hundred thousand in South Kordofan were immunized against the five major diseases affecting animals in Sudan between January and October this year.The immunization campaign was carried out jointly by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the Ministry of Animal Resources and Fisheries (MARF).”Animal health has been a major concern for nomads in Darfur and South Kordofan,” said Christophe Driesse, who coordinates the ICRC’s economic security activities in Sudan. “Armed clashes are making it difficult for them to obtain veterinary services and to reach the grazing areas where they used to take their animals. The vaccination of animals is an essential means of supporting their livelihood.”Among the five major diseases that could affect the animals is anthrax, a bacterial infection that is in most forms mortal and can also spread to humans. The animals vaccinated are cows, goats, sheep, camels, horses and donkeys.Vaccines and refresher training was provided for members of remote pastoralist communities who monitor animal health and provide basic treatment.