St. Kitts gov’t launches dermatophilosis disease control programme
By: Chaïra Flanders
Basseterre, St. Kitts, February 6, 2020 (ZIZ News): On Tuesday the Department of Agriculture held an official launch of a Dermatophilosis Disease Control Programme at the Dept. of Agriculture, Conference Room.
The launch sought to address Dermatophilosis; a skin disease caused by a parasite known as the Amblyomma variegatum, commonly known as the tropical bont tick.
During his opening remarks, Livestock Production Officer, Jeffery Berry explained why it is necessary to host the launch of the program. He said that it has been quite difficult for livestock farmers who unfortunately lost over 600 cattle between 2019 and 2020 as a result of Dermatophilosis.
Mr. Berry said that there are several benefits that farmers can gain from the launch of this program and advised all present not to take the initiative for granted.
Veterinarian, Dr. Lesroy Henry delivered a presentation on the topic: “Tick Control Programme: Methodology and Requirements of Farmers”. He explained that the initiative is a Control program that can only thrive with full cooperation from farmers.
He also explained why the program is being launched this month.
He said that the Department of Agriculture did everything in its power to source the medicine needed to treat animals that suffered from the effects of the skin disease. He added that the launch of program can now help to prevent extensive damage for future and can also help farmers rebuild.