By John Mugendi
Farmers in Turima location in Tharaka constituency, Tharaka Nithi County are counting losses after a strange disease killed at least 50 cows.
The affected farmers told thepresspoint.com on Wednesday that the first case was recorded in Kiagu area about a month ago but with the onset of rains it has rapidly spread across the region.
Mr Kanyamba Mucee, a farmer, said the sick cows are developing fever and are drinking a lot of water.
He added that the cows were also discharging blood through the anus, ears and nostrils before dying in about two days.
“My father has already lost two cows and several other farmers are counting losses too,” Mr Mucee said.
Other farmers who have lost cows to the illness include Njeru Mutegi, Mwendwa Nkari, Murauki Nkabu, Gitonga Machauru, Twiki Gaceu and Peter Nkou among several others.
The County Agriculture Executive, Mr Njue Njagi told thepresspoint.com that veterinary officers were Wednesday dispatched to the affected areas to establish the type of the disease.
“I have sent my officers to the affected areas to establish the kind of disease,” said Mr Njue.
The official warned the locals against skinning the carcasses or consuming the meat of the sick animals but to bury it deep into the soil.
