Local FMD Vaccine Production is the need of the time, SAT-1 Alert needs to be addressed effectively: Dr. Alamdar Hussain Malik
Leading veterinary expert Dr. Alamdar Hussain Malik has warned of a serious threat to Pakistan’s livestock. He said the possible entry of Foot and Mouth Disease – FMD SAT-1 serotype could cause heavy losses. He added that available FMD vaccines in Pakistan do not protect against SAT-1. Moreover, he emphasized the local FMD Vaccine Production.
Alert for FMD SAT-1 Serotype
The former Secretary of the Pakistan Veterinary Medical Council said the FAO SAT-1 alert, shared by the Office of the Animal Husbandry Commissioner (AHC), signals a real danger. SAT-1 cases are appearing in neighboring countries. Meanwhile, the informal livestock trade continues. Seasonal animal movement adds more risk. Weak biosecurity further increases the threat.
He explained that Pakistan’s Foot and Mouth Disease control program focuses only on serotypes O, A, and Asia-1. SAT-1 has not appeared in the region since the 1950s. As a result, animals lack immunity. If SAT-1 enters Pakistan, milk and meat production will drop sharply. Small farmers will suffer major financial losses. National food security will also face risks.
جانوروں میں منہ کھر کی بیماری کی روک تھام میں حکومت ناکام
He emphasized stronger quarantine systems along with the vaccine availability. High-risk districts need close monitoring. Effective disease surveillance must improve. Information sharing with neighboring countries is also vital.
Demand for Local FMD Vaccine Production
Dr. Alamdar stated that Pakistan needs over 300 million vaccine doses each year. However, available vaccines remain below 20 million doses. He added that current vaccines offer no protection against SAT-1.
Dr Alamdar urged the government to establish a local FMD vaccine production plant. He also called for an emergency vaccine bank. A clear national contingency plan is essential, he added
منہ کھر کی نئی قسم کا الرٹ جاری، ویکسین کی فوری منظوری کا مطالبہ
Dr. Alamdar said Pakistan also lacks effective locally produced FMD vaccines for existing serotypes. Therefore, the country depends on imported vaccines. He stressed that local vaccine production for Foot and Mouth Disease is now an urgent need.
Livestock Pharmaceutical Companies in Pakistan
He concluded that SAT-1 is an early warning. Ignoring it could be disastrous for Pakistan’s livestock sector.
