MUSCAT, June 12 - Even as the nation is all set to celebrate Eid al Fitr, authorities have warned against unhealthy practices in animal slaughtering and the use of firecrackers on the occasion. In a video clip posted on its Twitter handle, the Ministry of Health advised citizens and residents to take precautions while slaughtering animals to avoid the risk of contracting Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF). While urging the public to avoid direct contact with the livestock, the ministry said, “Animal slaughter should be carried out at slaughterhouses designated by the authorities and not at homes or public places.”
The CCHF virus includes a wide range of wild and domestic animals, including cattle, sheep and goats.
The virus gets transmitted to people either by tick bites or through contact with infected animal blood or tissues during and immediately after slaughter.
Human-to-human transmission can occur from close contact with blood, secretions, organs or other bodily fluids of infected persons.
In a similar note, the ministries of agriculture and fisheries and regional municipalities and water resources said the state abattoirs have the services of qualified butchers and veterinarians.
“The facilities will help identify whether an animal is infected with any kind of disease,” it said. Slaughter waste must be collected in bags and sealed. Tightly sealed bags will ensure there are no smells and insects present around, the note added.
Meanwhile, the Royal Oman Police and Customs Department have warned against the use of firecrackers or any attempt to smuggle them into the country.
In a stringent warning, the ROP said, “It is strictly prohibited to burst firecrackers or fire celebratory gunshots. Offenders will face stiff penalties and jail terms.”
Checking at all official ports have been tightened to thwart any attempt to smuggle firecrackers into the country, said the statement.
According to the police, those caught smuggling firecrackers could face a maximum prison term of three years and a fine of RO 3,000, while those bursting firecrackers could be fined up to RO 200 and a minimum of three months’ jail.
SAMUEL KUTTY
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