Tackling Zoonotic Diseases

Zoonotic diseases, like Rift Valley Fever (RVF) and anthrax, can be passed from animals to humans and are therefore a direct danger to the health of the local population.

During a serious outbreak of RVF in Kenya and Tanzania in late 2006, it became clear that there was a lack of preparedness in the region on how to deal with disease outbreaks.

Through this project, VETAID will establish a disease control and quick response strategy for future disease outbreaks. In the longer term, these measures will holistically address the risk of major animal diseases and their effects on the livestock export trade and public health.

VETAID will carry out vaccination campaigns for zoonotic diseases such as anthrax and rift valley fever and other endemic diseases like sheep and goats pox and caprine pneumonia. In collaboration with local government vets and Community Animal Health Workers (CAHWs), the project will ensure disease outbreaks are reported as soon as they are identified and preventive measures are taken.

This project is being implemented in collaboration with the Tanzanian Ministry of Livestock Development.