Over 20 cows die after East Coast Fever in Rumphi

Atleast 27 cows have died following a suspected outbreak of East Coast Fever in Ntchenachena Extension Planning Area, authorities say.

Director of Agriculture Hastings Malumbo Nyirongo said 34 cattle from nine kraals have been affected so far, with at least 240 more at risk of contracting the deadly livestock disease.

Nyirongo said the council has already collected samples for laboratory confirmation.

As an immediate control measure, all cattle in the affected area have been quarantined.

He added that antibiotics have been distributed to farmers to treat affected animals.

Meanwhile, Senior Chief Mwalweni has urged his subjects to strictly follow the council’s advice to prevent further spread of the disease and more livestock deaths.