The vaccination campaign against foot-and-mouth disease begins in most Brazilian states as of May 1. The director of the Department of Animal Health (DSA) of the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Supply (MPLS), Guilherme Marques reminds that producers should be careful not to miss the immunization period.
“The farmer who does not comply with his obligation will be assessed and fined (the fine depends on each state) and the vaccination will be applied even if it is necessary to use police force,” he said in a statement.
The director explains that the ministry assesses the immunity to know if the animals were actually vaccinated. This is possible by collecting material (blood) on various properties from various states. This check complements the vaccination statement and the purchase invoice submitted by the breeders.
If the tax auditors find that the herd has not been vaccinated, the producer will respond to a lawsuit. “So it’s good for everyone to be aware of their role, to do the vaccination correctly, keeping the vaccine at a temperature of 2 to 8 degrees, preferably applying under the leather, on the plank of oxen and buffalo,” warns the director.