The Sokoto State chapter of the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA) has embarked on the use of local languages and bio-security techniques in the campaign against Coronavirus in the state.

The association made this known in a statement signed by its state Chairman and Secretary, Drs Mubarak Bello, and Attahiru Ahmad, respectively, and made available to newsmen on Saturday in Sokoto.

The association said that the move was part of the 2020 World Veterinary Day (WVD) celebrations, adding that it also aimed at complementing the government’s efforts on the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic in the state.

According to NVMA, the day is being celebrated last Saturday of April of every year, noting that this year’s exercise coincides with the pandemic currently ravaging the world.

The association said that the theme for this year ”Environmental Protection for Improving Animal and Human Health” was strategic to educating the people.

”As advocates of one health, veterinarians understand the inextricable link among humans, animals, and the environment.

”Any negative consequence on the environment will, in turn, bear its negative impact on ourselves and the animals under our care,” it said.

The association called on pet owners and others in close contact with animals to observe adequate bio-security while handling the animals, even though studies had not been conclusive on the zoonotic nature of COVID-19 disease.
It also described the institution of proper sanitary measures as the right step in the right direction, saying that this would help in stopping the spread between man and animal as well as among animals.

The NVMA commended the federal and state governments as well as other stakeholders for their efforts at containing the spread of the virus in the state.

The association expressed its commitment to sensitizing people in abattoirs, veterinary clinics, and live birds markets in Arabic-Ajami, Hausa, and Fulfulde languages.

”The association’s members are already part of the state and federal task force and have pledged to continue their active participation,” it said.

NAN