Itanagar: A team of central experts, state veterinary officials and district administrators has launched an intensive containment drive after a foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreak hit livestock in Arunachal Pradesh’s Dibang Valley district, with mithuns worst affected. Officials said more than 200 mithuns have died in the district up to Aug 8.A rapid response team from Itanagar reached Anini on Aug 8 with medicines and supplies, followed by the deployment of three specialised teams. On Aug 11, field assessments, epidemiological surveys and sample collection were initiated to map the spread and identify transmission links.A high-level central team led by VK Teotia, joint commissioner, govt of India, arrived on Aug 13 and conducted intensive visits across remote areas including Acheso, Angrim Valley, Aropo, Mipi circle, Maro, 9 Kilo and Matu Camp. The teams treated infected animals, distributed medicines, collected diagnostic samples from Mithuns, pigs and goats, and carried out post-mortems.They also visited the ITBP camp at Acheso to collect goat blood samples and brief personnel on biosecurity measures. Inspections were conducted at the district veterinary office, veterinary dispensary and the cattle breeding farm in Anini.Local representatives, including Anini MLA Mopi Mihu and panchayat leaders, supported logistics and outreach. Specimens have been sent for laboratory testing. District veterinary officer Dr D Riba said teams will remain deployed until the situation is contained. The department urged farmers to follow biosecurity norms, report symptoms quickly, and cooperate with biannual vaccination drives.
