500 Donkeys Protected Against Deadly Tetanus

Due to your generosity and compassion for working animals, Lakezone Animal Welfare Organisation (LAZAWO) have been able to continue their tetanus booster vaccination program for vulnerable donkeys.

The donkeys targeted are those working in gold mines in Geita, Tanzania, where a recent tetanus outbreak threatened many of their lives.

Background

Following reported cases of tetanus amongst working donkeys in the mining communities of Stamico, Nyarugusu and Mgusu in the Geita District, urgent mass tetanus vaccinations were conducted on July 7th and 8th to contain the outbreak.

A booster vaccination was required to strengthen immunity, especially for newly-introduced donkeys, who were at higher risk due to a lack of prior vaccination.

The outbreak was advancing rapidly, posing a serious threat to the health of donkeys and the livelihoods of their owners in these mining communities.

Booster vaccines supported by AAA

With generous and timely support from Animal Aid Abroad (AAA), our field veterinary team swiftly administered booster tetanus vaccines to newly-introduced donkeys in Mgusu, Stamico and Nyarugusu. These animals had no prior vaccination history and were at the highest risk of infection.

In total, 500 donkeys have now received their second dose, strengthening their immunity and ensuring continued protection against tetanus. 

Vaccination impacts

This urgent vaccination effort has generated substantial benefits for the entire community engaged in the project, with key results including:

a) Lowering the immediate threat of additional tetanus cases in working donkeys, thereby protecting their overall health.

b) Preserving the well-being and work performance of donkeys, which in turn secures the income and livelihoods of mining and rural households.

c) Enhancing donkey owners’ understanding of tetanus prevention, biosecurity measures and animal welfare, encouraging a more preventative and responsible approach to donkey health within the community.

Thank you

The LAZAWO veterinary team warmly thanks (AAA) for your swift and life-saving support at a time when tetanus risk was rapidly rising.

Your generosity enabled us to vaccinate newly-purchased donkeys, give boosters for lasting protection, and equip ourselves with tetanus antitoxin for immediate response. We will also continue teaching owners how to protect their animals from wounds and disease.

This vital progress was only possible because of your kindness. With your continued support, we are committed to protecting the health and wellbeing of these hardworking donkeys.