Glanders Disease Spreads in Mandi: Animal Husbandry Department Issues Alert

Mandi, Jan 29 2025: The outbreak of Glanders disease among horses and mules in Mandi district has raised serious concerns. A blood sample taken from horses in Makridi Samoun tested positive at the National Equine Research Center, Hisar. In response, the Animal Husbandry Department has directed its field staff to conduct widespread testing and urged horse owners to cooperate in containment efforts.

Glanders is a contagious and fatal bacterial infection caused by *Burkholderia mallei*, primarily affecting horses, mules, and donkeys, with potential transmission to humans. Symptoms include nodules, nasal bleeding, and respiratory distress. The disease is so severe that culling infected animals remains the only viable solution.

Although the outbreak in Mandi emerged late this year, cases were already reported in Kullu and other districts. The authorities had preemptively started collecting blood samples for testing. The recent confirmation in Makridi Samoun has led to intensified surveillance and preventive measures.

The Animal Husbandry Department has ramped up efforts to curb the spread of Glanders. Dr. Mukesh Mahajan, Deputy Director of the department, has urged all horse and mule owners to cooperate with officials during sample collection to prevent further transmission.