Starfruit (malangkota.go.id) – The outbreak of foot and mouth disease (FMD) in animals in Malang City has caused some people to panic and be reluctant to consume meat and milk. However, this has become a serious concern for the Malang City Government through the Food Security and Agriculture Service (Dispangtan).
According to the Head of Animal Husbandry and Animal Health of Malang City, drh. Anton Pramujiono, the public does not need to panic about FMD that is currently attacking animals. The public is still safe to consume meat as long as it is processed properly and correctly.
"FMD is not a zoonotic disease (transmitted from animals to humans or vice versa). So there is no need to be afraid of consuming meat and milk as long as the meat and milk are cooked properly. Meat does not need to be washed, but boiled for 30 minutes before being processed. If the meat is not cooked immediately, store it in the chiller for 24 hours," explained drh. Anton Pramujiono, Friday (27/5/2022).
Likewise with offal, Anton shared tips for safe consumption, people should choose offal that has been boiled, then processed or stored in the refrigerator. Meat and offal packaging should be soaked with detergent before being thrown away.
"Milk must be heated first until it boils while stirring for five minutes so that it is safe to consume," explained Anton.
From a survey conducted in Malang City, Anton admitted that along with the rampant FMD so far, meat consumption has indeed decreased. For that, his party continues to educate the public so that they are not afraid to consume meat and milk as long as they can handle it properly.
Regarding the spread of FMD in Malang City, Anton said that as of May 26, 2022, there were 191 cattle that tested positive for FMD. For cattle that are indicated as FMD, Dispangtan together with the community and surveillance have carried out handling.
"The latest data on May 26, 2022, there were 191 FMD cases in Malang City. One cow died, 164 were treated and monitored, 17 were slaughtered, and nine have recovered after treatment," said Anton.
The FMD outbreak has spread widely from Purwantoro, Kedungkandang, Sukun, Blimbing. The largest contributor of FMD cases is from the Purwantoro area, Blimbing District. Because there is a center of the Sanan tempeh industry which is filled with cattle farms.
"To minimize exposure, we have asked to separate the cows. FMD transmission can occur through feces and urine. Especially those with scars on the hooves, there are many viruses," said Anton.
For now, what can be done is to provide fast and precise treatment. In addition, education is carried out so that farmers immediately carry out disinfection if exposure to FMD is found.
"I hope that livestock will maintain their health, maintain the cleanliness of the pen, and spray disinfectant. Increase the strength or stamina of livestock and do not bring or put new livestock into the pen that can transmit FMD," said Anton. (cah/ram)
