Mithun Deaths in Arunachal Pradesh Due to Foot-and-Mouth Disease

In Arunachal Pradesh's Dibang Valley, a concerning outbreak of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) has led to the deaths of 267 mithuns, with over 1,400 animals affected. Veterinary authorities are intensifying their response, including treatment and vaccination efforts. The disease, first reported in late July, has prompted a rapid response team to monitor and manage the situation. Officials urge the public to verify livestock data with official records to prevent misinformation. This article delves into the ongoing efforts to control the outbreak and protect the local livestock population.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 21, 2026, 16:27 IST

Mithun Mortality in Dibang Valley

A mithun grazes in the hills of Dibang Valley. (Representational image/@mentormanas/X)

Itanagar, Sep 21: In the past two months, the Dibang Valley district of Arunachal Pradesh has witnessed the death of 267 mithuns, with 1,402 animals reported to be affected by Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD), according to officials on Monday.

The outbreak has been identified in 21 villages within the district, prompting veterinary authorities to enhance treatment efforts, surveillance, and preventive strategies to manage the situation.

Dr. Dammo Riba, the district's Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Officer, noted that the first cases of the disease emerged in the last week of July.

Out of the 1,402 mithuns affected, 1,225 have received treatment, while 267 have succumbed, as per the departmental report dated September 20.

In response to the rising mortality rates among mithuns, veterinary teams have been dispatched with necessary medications and sample-collection kits, and a specialized team from the Centre has visited the impacted regions.

Laboratory analyses conducted by the National Institute of Foot and Mouth Disease (NIFMD) in Odisha confirmed that the outbreak is linked to FMD serotype 'O'.

A rapid response team (RRT) consisting of four members, along with local veterinary staff, is actively engaged in treatment, surveillance, and awareness initiatives in the affected areas.

Dr. Riba has urged the public and relevant organizations to cross-check livestock population and mortality statistics with official departmental records to avoid the dissemination of false or misleading information.

FMD is a highly infectious viral disease that affects cloven-hoofed animals, including mithuns and cattle.

Vaccination plays a crucial role in prevention, and the department organizes free vaccination drives twice a year at farmers' locations. Dr. Riba has called on livestock owners to fully cooperate during these vaccination efforts.

The department is closely monitoring the situation and has implemented necessary measures to control the disease and safeguard the livestock population in the district.