TANGMARG: On the eve of World Zoonoses Day, a joint awareness programme was organised at Gogaldara, Tangmarg by the Department of Sheep Husbandry, Baramulla in collaboration with the Department of Microbiology, Government Medical College (GMC) Baramulla.

The event was aimed at sensitising the local population, particularly those associated with livestock rearing, regarding the risks, prevention, and control of zoonotic diseases.

The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from the residents of Gogaldara and adjoining villages, including a significant number of Chopans, Bakerwals, livestock-rearing farmers and women participants, highlighting growing awareness and inclusivity in community health initiatives.

Experts and medical professionals from GMC Baramulla, along with doctors from the Department of Sheep Husbandry, addressed the gathering and delivered comprehensive lectures on a range of zoonotic diseases like Rabies, Brucellosis, Leptospirosis, Toxoplasmosis, Bovine Tuberculosis, Anthrax among others.

The experts elaborated on the modes of transmission, clinical manifestations, and preventive strategies associated with these diseases, while also stressing the importance of vaccination, personal hygiene, and biosecurity measures to minimise the risk of zoonotic transmission between animals and humans.

Meanwhile, the Department of Sheep Husbandry Baramulla carried out a Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) vaccination drive, during which approximately 400 sheep were vaccinated. This initiative forms a crucial part of the ongoing efforts to safeguard animal health and enhance livestock productivity in the region.