Sheep deaths trigger disease fears in Chenab Valley

Reasi, Feb 27: Concern has gripped the Gulabgarh area of Mahore Sub-Division in Reasi district following reports of sudden deaths of several sheep in Village Nihoch, triggering fears of a possible infectious disease outbreak.
According to the inhabitants of the village, multiple sheep belonging to a local livestock owner, Nazir Ahmad Malik, died unexpectedly despite appearing healthy prior to their sudden collapse. The unexplained deaths have sparked apprehensions that an unidentified contagious disease may have surfaced in the area.
Livestock rearing is a primary source of income for many families in Gulabgarh and adjoining villages. Locals said that continued animal deaths could severely impact the fragile economic condition of farmers who depend heavily on sheep and goat rearing for sustenance.
They alleged that no official team from the Sheep Husbandry Department has yet visited the affected village to assess the situation or collect samples for examination. They urged the district administration to immediately depute veterinary doctors and technical staff to ascertain the exact cause of the deaths and initiate preventive measures.
Locals further demanded that vaccination drives and medical camps be organized in the affected and adjoining areas to prevent further spread of the suspected disease. They also called for a comprehensive survey of livestock in nearby villages to detect any early symptoms and mitigate potential losses.
An official from Sheep Husbandry Department confirmed the deaths of sheep saying that a team is scheduled to visit the Nihoch village to ascertain the facts. [KNT]