Over 8,000 Cows Infected with Foot-and-Mouth in Kuwait; Milk Output Drops 75%
KUWAIT CITY, May 7: Director General of the Public Authority for Agriculture Affairs and Fish Resources (PAAAFR) Eng. Salem Al-Hai revealed that the number of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) cases among cows in 31 out of the 44 cow farms in Sulaibiya — from April 6 to May 5 — reached around 8,000, hence, the remarkable decline in fresh milk production from 250,000 liters per day to less than 100,000 liters or about 75 percent decline.
Al-Hai told the daily that 952 cows have recovered from the disease, while 71 died, explaining that FMD is an organic disease which is also considered an economic disease as it affects the meat and dairy industries of a country. He stressed the need to strengthen the immune system of cows, as well as the biosecurity of farms and agricultural plots, to ensure adequate protection against the disease.
He affirmed that vaccines for the disease will arrive within two weeks, according to the supplier, which will contribute to curbing the spread of FMD and gradually restore milk production levels in the country. He emphasized the need to adhere to the rule on limiting animal movement, whether through sale or donation, until the epidemiological situation in Sulaibiya stabilizes. He called on workers in cattle farms to strictly comply with sanitation and sterilization procedures, such as sterilizing milking equipment, milking tools and milking sites, in addition to training workers and raising their awareness on preventive measures.
Meanwhile, Chairman of the Union of Fresh Dairy Companies Abdulhakim Al-Ahmad said cow farms are experiencing a major crisis due to the delayed arrival of FMD vaccines. He pointed out that losses are huge and farm owners have started selling their cows for as low as KD150; compared to the import price of KD1,500 per cow from Europe and KD1,000 for those imported from Australia. He stated that the spread of mastitis among cows has exacerbated their health condition and reduced milk production, indicating that in light of these developments, the union, PAAAFR and other concerned authorities must quickly support the affected farms and consider the import of vaccines an urgent matter.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Kuwait Times
5 days ago
- Kuwait Times
Rare views of Al-Hala Island documented by Kuwaiti photographer
KUWAIT: Kuwaiti environmentalist and photographer Dr Abdullah Al-Zaidan has successfully observed and documented the rare natural phenomenon of Al-Hala Island, located in the southern part of Kuwaiti waters, specifically in the Al-Zour area. The island is a stunning and unusual natural feature. Speaking to the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) on Tuesday, Al-Zaidan explained that Al-Hala is a temporary sandbar that emerges during low tide and completely disappears during high tide. Its unique nature makes it a favored destination for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility. He added that the island's transformation is a key attraction, making it a prime spot for environmental marine tourism. Visitors are drawn to this nontraditional experience amid the clear waters of the Gulf, where they can engage with untouched nature far from pollution and urban development. Al-Hala Island Fish swim near the coral reefs in the waters surrounding Al-Hala Island. An endangered green turtle swims underwater at the island. Al-Zaidan emphasized that visiting Al-Hala Island helps raise environmental awareness and promotes sustainable tourism, which balances enjoyment with the preservation of natural ecosystems. Regarding the surrounding area, he noted that the Al-Zour coastline is ecologically significant due to minimal human activity and construction, making it a vital habitat. It hosts endangered green turtles, which come to nest and lay eggs during specific seasons, and it is home to vibrant coral reefs essential to marine biodiversity. The area also serves as a resting site for migratory and resident seabirds, which use the island as a natural stopover along the coast. Dr Al-Zaidan concluded by stressing the importance of protecting these fragile marine areas and encouraging mindful visits to help preserve marine life and ensure ecological balance for future generations. — KUNA
Arab Times
5 days ago
- Arab Times
‘Eid prayer does not exempt people from Friday prayers'
KUWAIT CITY, June 4: The Assistant Undersecretary for the Fatwa and Sharia Research Sector at the Ministry of Islamic Affairs has clarified the religious opinion regarding the Friday (Jumu'ah) prayer when Eid coincides with a Friday, reports Al-Seyassah daily. In an official statement, he explained that, according to the majority of Islamic jurists, performing the Eid prayer does not exempt Muslims from the obligation of attending the Friday prayer. The Friday prayer must still be performed at its designated time. Some jurists hold the view that those who have already performed the Eid prayer may forgo the Friday prayer and instead perform the regular Dhuhr prayer, based on reports that the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) did the same. If a person serves as an imam, he must lead the Friday prayer for those who attend the mosque. The Fatwa and Sharia Research Sector confirmed in a statement that the matter allows for flexibility, and both options are considered valid. Those who prefer ease may suffice with the Eid prayer and perform Dhuhr instead of Jumu'ah, while those who choose to observe both the Eid and Friday prayers out of caution are also acting correctly. Meanwhile, the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Islamic Affairs and Head of the Kuwaiti Hajj Mission Dr. Bader Al-Mutairi announced that all 8,000 Kuwaiti pilgrims, organized into 60 groups, have safely arrived in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, reports Al-Seyassah daily. In a statement to the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), Dr. Al-Mutairi confirmed that mission teams from various participating agencies are working tirelessly at the holy sites to ensure the highest levels of comfort, safety, and care for Kuwaiti pilgrims. He stated that preparations at Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah were completed well in advance, which reflects the mission's dedication to providing an organized and secure environment. Dr. Al-Mutairi urged all Kuwaiti pilgrims to strictly follow the instructions issued by the official Saudi authorities.
Arab Times
5 days ago
- Arab Times
All 8,000 Kuwaiti pilgrims have arrived; teams at highest readiness: Hajj Mission Chief
MAKKAH, June 4: Dr. Bader Al-Mutairi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Islamic Affairs and Head of the Kuwaiti Hajj Mission, announced Tuesday that all 8,000 Kuwaiti pilgrims have arrived in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The pilgrims are part of 60 organized Hajj missions in preparation for the upcoming pilgrimage season. In a statement to the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), Dr. Al-Mutairi confirmed that all participating teams from various Kuwaiti government agencies are fully operational and working around the clock at the holy sites to ensure the safety and comfort of Kuwaiti pilgrims. He noted that preparations at Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah have been completed, crediting the efforts of mission teams who have been working diligently since the early stages of planning. These efforts reflect a unified commitment to providing a secure and well-organized environment for pilgrims to perform their rituals with ease and peace of mind. Dr. Al-Mutairi urged all Kuwaiti pilgrims to strictly follow the instructions issued by the Saudi authorities, prepare themselves for the rituals, and fully cooperate with the supervisory and service teams of the Kuwaiti Hajj Mission. The Kuwaiti Hajj Mission comprises representatives from several government and public agencies, including the Ministries of Islamic Affairs, Foreign Affairs, Interior, Information, and Health. It also includes personnel from the General Fire Department, the Public Authority for Food and Nutrition, the Public Authority for Youth, and the Kuwait Red Crescent Society—all dedicated to serving the guests of God during the pilgrimage.
