The Enugu State Government has issued a stern warning to butchers and poultry farmers to desist from selling animals that have died from unknown causes.
The government has threatened to take strong action against those found guilty of this unhealthy practice, which poses serious health risks to consumers.
The warning follows a tip-off from the public that animals that have died from diseases such as flu are being sold in meat markets. The state government has activated its public health, veterinary, and disease surveillance departments to investigate the allegations.
According to the Commissioner for Health, Prof Ikechukwu Obi, and the Commissioner for Agriculture, Mr Patrick Ubru, consuming dead animals can have severe health implications, including the risk of zoonotic diseases, which are easily transmitted from animals to humans. They warned that the sale of dead animals outside the normal methods of preparation is a serious crime and will be met with punishment.
To prevent this practice, state health officers are now inspecting livestock farms and abattoirs. The government is urging members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicion of such practices to the following hotlines: 08037178703, 08066865511, 08037431577, or 08033375344.
The government reiterates that this practice can lead to epidemics of varying magnitude with severe health consequences. The people of Enugu State are advised to be cautious and report any suspected cases to avoid any harm.
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