Pandemics Outbreak in Thailand and Namibia, Thousands of Livestock Affected, 2 Deaths, 10 Illnesses, 1546 Suspected Cases!

The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) has recently received reports of several animal outbreaks. On September 3, 2024, the Livestock Development Bureau of the Ministry of Agricultural Cooperation of Thailand reported that the outbreak of bovine nodular skin disease was confirmed in Tawangpa County, Thailand, on July 23. The epidemic was transmitted through vectors, and a total of 5 cattle were suspected to be infected, of which 2 were sick. At present, the outbreak is under control and Thailand will not submit further reports.

Also on September 3, the Namibian Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Resources informed that Opuwo City, Kunene District, confirmed an outbreak of bovine infectious pleuropneumonia on July 1, which was caused by contact with infected animals at grazing or drinking points. After testing, 1,546 cattle were suspected to be infected, of which 10 became ill, 1 died, and 9 were culled and properly disposed of. The outbreak has been brought under control.

However, outbreaks are ongoing in Bhutan and Gabon. On August 30, the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry of Bhutan reported that the outbreak of African swine fever was confirmed in the city of Galepzonggelpu on August 7, the source of the epidemic is not clear, and a total of 82 pigs were suspected to be infected, of which 26 became ill and died, and 56 were culled and properly disposed of. The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry of Bhutan will submit regular weekly follow-up reports.

In addition, Gabon's Ministry of Agriculture also reported that an outbreak of PPR was confirmed on July 26 in Sebe-Brikolo, Haut-Ogowe province, and the source of the outbreak is also unknown. Fifty-eight sheep were tested for suspected infection, of which 37 became ill and died. The Ministry of Agriculture of Gabon will also submit regular weekly follow-up reports.