Widespread vaccinations against bovine dermatitis , yet another virus that threatens Sardinian livestock. For the moment it has been decided that the block on cattle movements will remain in force and could be extended from the current 10 days to two months, while other livestock sectors will be able to resume their activities .
This was announced by councilors Armando Bartolazzi and Gian Franco Satta at the end of the summit held today at the regional health department to take stock of the epidemiological situation and next steps.
The meeting was attended by regional technicians, the Euvet team of the European Commission, a delegation from the Ministry of Health and the councilors Bartolazzi, and Gian Franco Satta (Agriculture).
"We will move towards a massive vaccination, as quickly as possible" , explains the Health Councilor, specifying that the ministry will take charge of it. As for the epidemiological situation, we still have to wait a few days to understand it better, but there is a fact that stands out and that should reassure breeders, according to Bartolazzi: "From the analyses of European experts, the virus could have entered Sardinia at least three months ago, so perhaps its diffusion was not so massive" . However, we must remain highly vigilant, "the epidemiological investigations are still ongoing and the incubation period of the disease can last up to 28 days". This is why the next two weeks are "crucial".
Three outbreaks have been identified: one in Orani, one in Orotelli and one in the Mantua area. And there are other suspected outbreaks to be confirmed on the Island. About thirty total confirmed cases.
Support for breeders
Sardinian politics is loudly calling for the support of the EU and, above all, of the national Government: "Do not leave us alone", is the appeal addressed to the representatives of the institutions present at the table.
The size of the problem is enormous, if we consider that Sardinia moves an average of 80 thousand heads of cattle, of which over 50% is destined for export .
"If the blockade lasts for 30-60 days after vaccinations, it is clear that the Region, together with the ministry, will provide compensation to breeders," declared the Agriculture Councilor, clarifying that the compensation will only go to those who move cattle. "We will propose to the regional council an allocation of approximately 10 million, and we are counting on help from the ministry."
(Online Union)
