Blackleg disease hits cattle in Cayo

Cattle ranchers have managed to control the spread of screwworm among their livestock, but that is not the only threat affecting their herds. Blackleg is once again reappearing in Belize and officials are concerned. According to a release issued by the Ministry of Agriculture, two young animals in the Cayo District have died after contracting the disease, which is caused by a soil borne bacteria. Animals suffering from the ailment experience inflammation of the muscles, and severe toxemia. The mortality rate is high as was evident last year when 36 head of cattle in Orange Walk, Cayo and Toledo died after contracting the disease. The Ministry is advising farmers to vaccinate cattle by using a seven-way vaccine that is available at agricultural supply stores. They are reminded to dispose of the bodies of any animals that have died as a result of Blackleg by burning or burying them deep in the earth to prevent bacteria from contaminating the soil and spreading the disease.