MUSCAT: The Directorate General of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources has officially launched the National Livestock Vaccination Campaign for the 2025-2026 season in South Al Batinah Governorate. The campaign will extend over eight consecutive months, covering all wilayats within the governorate, and aims to safeguard livestock against priority epidemic and infectious diseases. By focusing on prevention and controlling the spread of infections, this initiative serves as a cornerstone of Oman’s national strategy for combating animal epidemics and maintaining biosecurity across the region.
The vaccination program will target goats, sheep, and cattle, providing protection against key diseases including Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR), pox, enterotoxemia, foot-and-mouth disease, lumpy skin disease, and rabies. These measures are intended to reduce infection rates and prevent potential outbreaks, ensuring the long-term health and sustainability of animal herds. The comprehensive approach reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing livestock resilience and supporting the agriculture sector.
Eng. Younis Khamis Al Saadi, Director of the Animal Wealth Department in South Al Batinah, highlighted that the campaign continues the efforts of previous seasons. In 2024, approximately 315,804 goats, sheep, and cattle were vaccinated using a total of 518,187 vaccine doses. The director emphasized that the campaigns aim to increase annual vaccination coverage, limit the spread of diseases, and strengthen diagnostic and treatment programs to maintain herd health and support sustainable development within the agricultural sector.
Al Saadi called on livestock breeders to actively cooperate with field veterinary teams and ensure timely vaccination of their animals. He stressed that breeders’ participation is essential for protecting the animal population, securing sustainable livestock production, and enhancing its contribution to national food security. The campaign not only safeguards animal health but also reinforces Oman’s broader goals of agricultural sustainability and public health protection.