By Newswire Editorial

Veterinary authorities have identified a bacterial infection as the cause of the deaths of 42 buffaloes in Medawachchiya, following investigations into a previously unidentified disease affecting livestock in the area, it was reported.

According to state newspaper Dinamina, veterinary investigations have confirmed that the disease was caused by a species of Clostridium bacteria, following laboratory tests conducted on samples collected from the affected animals.

Veterinary investigation officers from the Anuradhapura and Vavuniya districts conducted post-mortem examinations, while samples were sent to the Veterinary Research Institute of the Department of Animal Production and Health in Gannoruwa for further analysis.

The Medawachchiya Veterinary Office has confirmed that the disease has now been brought under control at the livestock farm where it was first detected.

Meanwhile, arrangements are being made to vaccinate cattle and buffaloes in high-risk areas to prevent further outbreaks.

A spokesperson for the Veterinary Office said the vaccines required for the programme have already been received.

Veterinary authorities explained that the disease does not spread directly from one animal to another but is contracted through the consumption of contaminated grass or water.

Accordingly, farmers have been advised against taking their livestock for grazing in areas where the affected buffaloes had previously been kept.

The Veterinary Office further confirmed that the transportation of livestock, which had been temporarily suspended following the outbreak, has now resumed. (Newswire/ Image- Dinamina)