Padang Intensifies Second Round of FMD Vaccinations, 700 Doses Prepared Free of Charge

The Padang City Government is accelerating measures to control Foot and Mouth Disease by intensifying the second phase of vaccinations for cattle, buffalo, goats, and sheep. This strategic move aims to safeguard livestock health, prevent the spread of the disease, and protect the productivity of the community farming sector. Through the City Agriculture Office, the second round of vaccinations commenced on Wednesday, 1 July, with 700 free doses prepared for local farmers. The programme is part of strengthening livestock biosecurity amidst the high risk of FMD transmission, a contagious disease that spreads rapidly among cloven-hoofed animals and can cause significant economic losses for farmers. The government urges the public to utilise this service, although the available doses are limited. Vaccination is only administered to healthy animals, and farmers are required to present identification, with the final decision resting with the field medical team. Head of the Padang City Agriculture Office, Yoice Yuliani, explained that in 2026, Padang received an allocation of 3,000 FMD vaccine doses from the West Sumatra Provincial Government. As of early July, 1,300 doses have been administered across ten sub-districts, with West Padang being the only sub-district excluded due to the absence of cattle. Yoice stated that the vaccination prioritises female cattle because of their crucial role in sustaining livestock populations through reproduction. However, male cattle may also be vaccinated provided they are not nearing slaughter. The provincial government’s vaccination target is expected to be fully achieved by September 2026 at the latest. In addition to boosting immunity, the FMD vaccine is considered effective in mitigating the worst impacts of the disease, particularly the risk of complications that can significantly reduce livestock productivity. Although FMD is known for its high transmission rate, the mortality rate is relatively low if the animals are in good physical condition and receive prompt treatment. Yoice emphasised that farmers’ concerns about vaccination should not be an obstacle, as the vaccine strengthens livestock resistance to infection. She urged farmers not to fear vaccinating their animals, explaining that the vaccine enhances immunity, making livestock more resistant to FMD attacks and ensuring a quicker recovery if exposure occurs. Through the acceleration of this second vaccination phase, the Padang City Government hopes to optimise livestock protection, ensuring the farming sector remains productive, stable, and capable of supporting the economy of local farmers.