Editor
The National Drug Authority (NDA) has issued a warning to farmers regarding the proliferation of counterfeit and unauthorized foot and mouth disease (FMD) vaccines in the market.
In a recent statement, the NDA highlighted the discovery of vaccines sold under brand names such as “Purified FMD Fotivax Foot and Mouth Disease” and “National Veterinary Institute Foot and Mouth Disease Broad Spectrum.” These products were identified during post-surveillance activities.
Abiaz Rwamwiri, the spokesperson for the Authority, emphasized that these vaccines have not undergone the necessary approval processes by the NDA, thus raising concerns about their safety, quality, and efficacy.
The NDA reiterated that FMD vaccines are exclusively procured and imported by the government through the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries. Furthermore, all distribution of FMD vaccines is carried out solely by district local governments through their respective veterinary offices.
In response to the ongoing outbreak of FMD affecting over 32 districts nationwide, the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries (MAAIF) has implemented quarantine measures in affected areas to contain the spread of the disease and mitigate losses for farmers.
In a significant move, the Cabinet has approved the government’s initiative to procure 10 million doses of FMD vaccine. This endeavor aims to bolster ring vaccination efforts in both affected regions and neighboring districts at high risk of FMD transmission.
