Combating the Devastating Effects of Orkipei and Ormilo Diseases in Kajiado County
David Olebung’ani, a farmer from Oloililai ward in Kajiado county, shares his struggles with diseases that have taken a toll on his goats, sheep, and cattle. In a region where large herds of goats are common, the Contagious Caprine Pleuropneumonia (CCPP), commonly known as Orkipei in the Maasai local dialect presents a significant challenge for farmers. This airborne illness attacks the lungs and spreads quickly from goat to goat, leading to high mortality rates. In just a matter of days, a single goat can become infected, leading to death.
Orkipei is a preventable disease, but for farmers like David, the loss of 100 goats is a significant blow to his livelihood and that of his family. The fast transmission of the disease highlights the importance of vaccinating not just the goats but also other animals that may play a role in its transmission.
In times of drought, dogs may roam from home to home in search of food and if they happen to bite someone, the person could become infected with rabies if the dog is not vaccinated. Further, dogs also play a role in the transmission of another disease in the region, Coenurosis, referred to as Ormilo in the Maasai dialect. When an infected dog defecates on grass, goats, and sheep may ingest the infected eggs through grazing, leading to more cases of illness in the herd. David believes that deworming the dogs could stop the transmission of Ormilo and help protect his livestock.
The devastating effects of Orkipei and Ormilo diseases in Kajiado county highlight the need for farmers to take preventative measures to protect their herds. Vaccination and deworming are crucial steps in reducing the spread of these diseases and preserving the livelihood of farmers like David. These efforts, in conjunction with education and awareness programs, could help prevent the spread of diseases in the region and secure the future of small-scale farmers in Kajiado county.
In conclusion, it is essential for farmers and animal owners to understand the importance of preventative measures in protecting their livestock from diseases like Orkipei and Ormilo. The fast transmission and high mortality rates of these illnesses present significant challenges for farmers, but with proper education, awareness, and preventative measures, we can work towards a future where farmers like David can continue to thrive and support their families through their herds.
