Animal Husbandry department kicks off sixth phase of Foot and Mouth Disease vaccination campaign in Kerala

The sixth phase of the Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) vaccination campaign kicked off in Kerala on Friday (May 2, 2025), targeting eradication of the disease in the animal husbandry and dairy sector by 2030.

Vaccination squads will visit households for vaccinating cows and buffaloes free of charge. According to the Animal Husbandry department, 13.4 lakh cows and one lakh buffaloes will be vaccinated over the 18-day campaign period. The department has constituted 1870 squads for the purpose. Each squad consists of a vaccinator and a helper, the department said in a statement here on Friday.

The sixth phase is being conducted by the Animal Husbandry and Dairy Development departments in close coordination with dairy cooperatives, local bodies and allied government machinery.

Launching the sixth phase at the District Veterinary Centre, Kozhikode, on Friday, Minister for Animal Husbandry J. Chinchurani said that the campaign will be completed in 18 days between May 2 and May 23. The government is aiming to eradicate FMD, which causes production loss in the dairy sector, by 2030, she said.

FMD vaccination is a key component of the National Animal Disease Control Programme (NADCP).

Kerala can claim the status of FMD-free region by ensuring 95% vaccination coverage over two consecutive years, according to the Animal Husbandry department.