A veterinary doctor has been implicated in the tragic death of thousands of hens in Masaka District, according to a recent investigation by the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries (MAAIF) in collaboration with the College of Veterinary Medicine.
The incident, which sparked widespread concern and misinformation about a potential poultry disease outbreak, has been traced back to the misuse of antibiotics by a local farmer under the guidance of an unqualified veterinary professional.
Last week, a disturbing audio message circulated on social media, warning the public of a strange disease decimating poultry in Masaka and advising against consuming chicken. This led to panic among poultry farmers and consumers alike, fearing an outbreak of diseases like New Castle Disease, Avian Influenza, or Infectious Bursal Disease. In response, MAAIF dispatched a team of scientists to the district to investigate and collect samples for testing.
Preliminary tests from the samples, conducted at MAAIF’s Animal Health department, returned negative results for the suspected diseases. Further investigation revealed that the deaths were not due to a viral outbreak but rather the consequence of improper veterinary practices. A postmortem examination of the dead birds revealed evidence of oxytetracycline injection, which had been administered in excessive dosages. This antibiotic is typically used to treat pneumonia in poultry, a condition often exacerbated by overcrowding in poultry houses.
The farmer, whose identity remains confidential, admitted to hiring a self-proclaimed veterinary doctor to treat his flock. This individual, lacking the necessary qualifications and expertise, prescribed and administered a high dosage of oxytetracycline, leading to the demise of thousands of hens. Following the mass death, the farmer disposed of the carcasses improperly, further alarming the local community when they were discovered.
Dr. Mary Bateganya, the Chief Veterinary Officer at MAAIF, emphasized the critical need for poultry farmers to consult certified veterinary doctors. “The unfortunate incident in Masaka highlights the dangers of relying on unqualified individuals for veterinary services. We urge all poultry farmers to seek professional advice and follow proper guidelines when treating their birds,” she stated.
The Ministry has reassured the public that the poultry industry in Masaka is not threatened by any strange disease. They have labeled the viral audio message as misleading and unrepresentative of the actual situation. The incident, while unfortunate, underscores the importance of proper veterinary practices and the dangers of antibiotic misuse.
Uganda’s poultry industry is a significant contributor to the country’s economy, providing high-quality protein in the form of eggs and meat, and generating revenue through exports to neighboring countries. According to the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS), the country’s poultry population is on the rise, with an estimated 57.8 million chickens, including 17.4 million exotic breeds.
In light of this incident, MAAIF has intensified efforts to educate poultry farmers about the importance of proper veterinary care and the risks associated with antibiotic misuse. The Ministry is also working closely with local authorities in Masaka to ensure that such incidents are prevented in the future through stringent regulations and monitoring of veterinary practices.
As the investigation continues, the implicated veterinary doctor faces potential legal action for malpractice and the resulting economic and public health repercussions. The Ministry’s swift response and transparent communication have been crucial in mitigating panic and ensuring the continued safety and growth of Uganda’s poultry industry.
