Anticipating Spread, 250 Cows In Riau Islands Receive PMK Vaccines

Cattle Illustration (ANTARA)

TANJUNGPINANG - The government of Bintan Islands Riau Regency through the local Food and Agriculture Security Service (DKPP) injected mouth and nail disease (PMK) vaccines against 250 cows in the area.

The head of the Bintan Regency DKPP, Sri Heny Utami, said that this animal vaccination is proof of the government's presence to protect livestock from contracting animal disease, especially verbal and nail disease, which has recently returned to the island of Java.

"This vaccine aims to prevent the risk of transmission or the spread of PMK to livestock in Bintan, especially cows," said Sri Heny Utami, Sunday, March 10.

Meanwhile, the Head of Animal Husbandry and Animal Health Division of the Bintan Regency DKPP who is also the Acting Veterinary Authority of Bintan Regency, Iwan Berri Prima said that the cattle that were vaccinated were spread over two sub-districts, namely Gunung Kijang District as many as 125 heads, and Bintan Timur District 125 heads.

He explained that the vaccination had started on Wednesday, March 6, 2024, involving two veterinarians and six animal health supporters.

"Before being vaccinated, the veterinarian will ensure his health first. Only healthy cows can be vaccinated," he said.

He expressed his gratitude because until now Bintan still has zero PMK cases, and the participation of farmers to support PMK vaccination is quite high.

Moreover, in approximately three months there will be a Sacrificial Day, so strengthening the health of animals for the sacrifice must be ensured in advance.

"We are aggressively giving vaccines to increase the immunity of livestock from infectious diseases," said Berri.