Port Blair, Apr 28: Although transmission of Novel corona virus, COVID-19 has been reported human to human, COVID-19 infections have been reported in Tiger (Zoo premises) and cat also. There are several views by scientific community regarding mode of transmission and type of infections like pre-symtomatic, symptomatic and asymptomatic as in case of human population. Since, the virus and associated disease is new and our knowledge is limited, under the present situation it is advised that animals should be protected from being infected or being a carrier of this pandemic disease. Some of the points are suggested as follows.
• Buffaloes should be handled by limited and known number of persons. The persons handling animals should follow hygiene protocol (Wearing a mask, spectacle, gloves or frequent washing of hands and/or hand sanitizer after touching anything)
• Grazing of animals should be limited under supervision to nearby or stall fed to avoid damage of crops, vegetables and possible malicious attack by the owner/caretaker of agriculture farm or bite of stray or wild animals.
• Buffaloes are less tolerant to sunlight and suffer heat stress. Therefore, they may be allowed shower inside premises/dip nearby during high temperature time every day.
• Pregnant buffaloes should be given priority to comfortable housing to minimize stress as such stress may induce abortion.
• In milking animals, teats should be cleaned and sanitized before as well as after milking.
• Calf should be allowed to suck on cleaned and sanitized teats after milking. Calf should not be allowed to suck the milk full stomach rather it may be allowed many times in a day to prevent calf scour.
• Buffaloes should be tied maintaining enough distance and crowded housing has to be avoided. Further, entry of stray animals or birds to be checked and prevented.
• Clothes should be changed and kept for washing after handling the animals and should take bath.
