Alappuzha: The Foot-and-mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak in Alappuzha district is rapidly escalating, with new cases emerging across several panchayats.

The Animal Husbandry Department confirmed on Friday that the cattle in Chingoli and Ambalappuzha North panchayats had tested positive for the disease. The infection is now spreading extensively, affecting areas from Punnappra North to Harippad. In addition, authorities have identified infected cattle in all panchayats of Kuttanad, as well as in the Mannancherry panchayat.

A total of ten samples from the affected cattle have been sent to the national laboratory in Bhubaneswar. Two reports received so far have both confirmed the presence of FMD. The findings indicate that the strain is from the 'Zero O' category, which is classified as highly virulent. The report also highlights that the disease can spread through both air and water.

An epidemiologist from the District Animal Husbandry Department conducted an examination of all affected cattle, following which the samples were collected for testing.

Authorities began distributing vaccines and medicines on October 19, soon after the first case was reported in the Ambalappuzha South panchayat. According to Dr P V Arunodayam, although a central team was expected to arrive to assess the severity of the outbreak and recommend preventive measures, no team has yet visited the district.