**Punjab Launches Province-Wide Equine Hemoparasite Survey to Improve Horse Health**
A comprehensive survey to detect the prevalence of hemoparasites in horses has been initiated across Punjab, marking a significant advancement in the province’s equine health initiatives. The campaign aims to better understand and control blood-borne parasitic diseases affecting local horse populations.
The survey was launched under the directive of Dr. Sajjad Hussain, Director General of Research, following a high-level meeting chaired by Punjab’s Minister for Livestock, Mr. Ashiq Hussain Kirmani, and Secretary Livestock, Mr. Ahmad Aziz Tarar, at the Veterinary Research Institute (VRI) in Lahore.
To ensure the effectiveness of this operation, Dr. Halima Sadia, Director of the Animal Disease Reporting System (ADRS), has distributed a detailed Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to guide teams throughout the province. All disease diagnostic laboratories in Punjab are currently engaged in systematic sampling and diagnostic procedures in accordance with these protocols.
Field teams are actively conducting surveys and collecting samples in several key districts, including Faisalabad, Jhang, Sheikhupura, Bhakkar, Chiniot, Mianwali, and Rahim Yar Khan. The campaign has been met with enthusiasm and dedication from veterinary staff, who have been recognized for their diligent efforts in the field.
Officials hope that the survey’s findings will inform future strategies for the control and prevention of hemoparasitic diseases in equines, ultimately improving animal health and supporting the livelihoods of those dependent on horses in Punjab.
