SOUTH WAZIRISTAN: In an effort to contain the rapid spread of foot and mouth disease (FMD), the livestock department has launched an extensive vaccination drive across Lower South Waziristan district.

The campaign officially began on Friday under the directives of minister for livestock Fazal Hakim amid growing concern about the devastating economic and agricultural impact of the outbreak.

FMD, a highly contagious viral disease, poses a severe threat to the health of cattle, sheep, and goats. It adversely affects animals` ability to feed, reduces milk production, and can lead to longterm health complications or death if left untreated. Over the past week, the disease has assumed epidemic proportions in parts of Lower South Waziristan, leading to the deaths of hundreds of animals and infecting thousands more.

To address the crisis, special vaccination teams from Upper South Waziristan were mobilised and have now reached Wana, the administrative headquarters of Lower South Waziristan.

From there, field teams areoperating in affected areas from dawn to dusk. Their work includes identifying infected livestock, vaccinating at-risk herds, and educating herders on precautionary measures.

District director of livestock Mehmood Shah, who is supervising the campaign, stated that five mobile veterinary teams had been formed and were actively working.

`Approximately 16,000 animals, both large and small, have been vaccinated so far.

Our teams are covering all high-risk zones and remote villages to ensure no area is left behind,` he said.

`In several locations, the infection rate is alarmingly high. We have submitted an urgent request to the provincial government for additional vaccine supplies to pre-vent any short ages and ensure the campaign continues without interruption,` Mr Shah noted.

The department has urged livestock owners to monitor their animals closely for symptoms such as excessive salivation, mouth sores, and hoof lesions. Farmers are advised to report any suspected cases immediately to nearby veterinary centres to enable rapid response.

`Thanks to the tireless dedication of our field staff and the cooperation of the local population, we are confident that this outbreak can be brought under control,` Mr Shah added. `Our goal is not only to contain the disease but also to prevent long-term economic damage to the livelihoods of herders and farmers in the region.