Medina: The National Center for the Prevention and Control of Plant Pests and Animal Diseases (Waqaya) in Madinah has undertaken extensive fieldwork aimed at preventing plant pests and animal diseases. This initiative is part of a broader effort to ensure public health and safety, as well as to foster a secure and sustainable environment through diligent monitoring and surveillance activities.
According to Saudi Press Agency, since the commencement of the Hajj season this year, Waqaya's field veterinary teams in Madinah have conducted 77,410 veterinary health checks on livestock. These checks involve thorough inspections in animal pens and visual assessments in public markets across the region. The teams are engaged in daily operations at designated sites, conducting inspection tours to identify any potential disease cases at an early stage.
The center reported that the number of inspection tours on livestock markets and slaughterhouses, accompanied by awareness activities, reached 576 tours. In addition, nearly 1,998 survey and control tours were performed by pest control teams in the Medina region and its surrounding governorates to manage disease vectors.
The entomological exploration efforts have covered 14,982 dunums and 71,780 hectares to monitor desert locusts. These efforts are part of the strategy to detect any early risks to plant health during the Hajj season. Fortunately, exploration tours have shown no infested areas.
Waqaya has previously conducted two hypothetical scenarios for animal health and disease vector management to ensure the completion of all field procedures and coordination with relevant authorities. The center continues to implement its field tasks and collaborate with these authorities, aiming to secure a healthy and safe environment from the threats posed by animal diseases and their vectors, preserve animal and plant wealth, and ensure a safe and healthy Hajj season.