Koraput: While the outbreak of Japanese Encephalitis has created havoc in Malkangiri district with the death of over 100 children, people of Koraput district are now in a state of panic as some cows have been found with Brucella bacteria which can easily spread to humans.
Talking about the spread of Brucellosis, an infectious disease caused by Brucella bacteria, Manorama Barik, a woman of Koraput town, said several cows in this area have died in large numbers. “I have some cows which are afflicted with the disease. I am not getting milk from these cows as they have given up food since last two weeks due to ulcers in their mouth,” she added.
Talking about the measures taken in this regard, Chief District Veterinary Officer (CDVO) Santanu Kumar Takri said the vaccination of calves in the district is going on. “Last year, we had vaccinated 720 calves. This year we have decided to vaccinate more than 2500 calves,” he pointed out.
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Brucellosis in humans occurs when a person comes into contact with an animal or animal product infected with the Brucella bacteria.
The bacteria may spread from person to person. Breastfeeding mothers with Brucellosis may pass the bacteria to their baby. Besides, Brucella may also be spread through sexual contact.
The bacteria can enter the body of a human through a cut or scratch in the skin. Besides, it can also enter through food or drink which are contaminated with the bacteria, such as unpasteurized milk or undercooked meat.
A person will suffer from fever with acute headache and joint pain throughout life if he/she takes cow milk contaminated with Brucella bacteria. Another shocking aspect is that Brucella bacteria in animals cannot be cured.
Talking to media persons, Karpura Hantal, president of Kisan Milk Producers Cooperative Society, said he would request the CDVO to spread awareness among the milk farmers about the presence of the bacteria in cow milk.
Reports said some cows at the cattle breeding centres in Semiliguda, Sunabeda and Damanjodi have been afflicted with Brucellosis. Out of 91 blood samples of cows from different areas of the district, 26 have been tested positive.
Talking about the preventive measures, Additional District Medical Officer (ADMO), Arun Kumar Padhi said instructions have been given to all PHCs, CHCs, Health Workers, Anganwadi workers and ASHA workers to report any symptoms in patients such as swelling of glands and high fever. “If we get any report in this regard, we will take immediate steps,” he added.