On social media, particularly on the Threads platform, alarming messages are spreading about the condition of young livestock, which are being born weak and unable to stand. Users also claim that the vaccines being used are ineffective. Moreover, mass illnesses among cows have already led to a shortage of dairy products.
Recently, Deputy Dastan Bekeshev reported at a parliamentary meeting that he has temporarily banned his relatives from purchasing beef, as farmers are increasingly approaching him with information about livestock infected with foot-and-mouth disease.
The Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture, and Processing Industry has denied these rumors, stating that the situation is under control.
However, at a meeting with livestock breeders, Minister Akunbekov noted that cases of disease among livestock have increased in recent years, which requires strengthening preventive measures and timely diagnostics from veterinary services.
Akunbekov emphasized the importance of preventing epizootic risks as one of the priority areas of agricultural policy and instructed the services to strengthen veterinary control, monitor the epizootic situation, and actively engage in prevention in farms.
It is also reported that funds from the republican budget have been allocated for the purchase of biopreparations and diagnostic kits.
The ministry strongly urges livestock owners to monitor the condition of their animals, promptly report any signs of disease to veterinary specialists, and strictly follow recommendations.
“Minister Akunbekov has taken control of the measures to prevent the epizootic situation,” the agency emphasized.
The Veterinary Service for Livestock Development, Pastures, and Feed also reported that the meat available at official markets and stores is safe for consumption.
Citizens are advised to be vigilant and purchase meat only from trusted sources. Buyers can request testing protocols from sellers and use QR codes to verify information about the meat, including the date and place of slaughter. At the same time, the service warns that purchasing meat from unregulated places or "from hand" can pose health risks.
Foot-and-Mouth Disease: What Is This Disease and How Is It Dangerous to Humans?
Foot-and-mouth disease is a serious illness that can be transmitted from animals to humans, especially through contact with contaminated meat or milk. The virus can cause fever, the appearance of blisters on mucous membranes, and other symptoms of intoxication.
Symptoms of foot-and-mouth disease in humans may include: fever, chills, weakness, elevated temperature, headache, back pain, sore throat, and excessive salivation. Some individuals may develop ulcers on the mucous membranes of the mouth, lips, tongue, as well as on the skin of the hands and feet.
