Afitase Fever Vaccination Opposition: Breeders’ Concerns
- paraguay's bovine industry is embroiled in a heated debate over the future of vaccination policies for foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), also known as Aftosa fever, and Aphyosa fever.While the...
- Bovine breeders are strongly advocating for the continuation of vaccination programs, arguing that halting these measures would leave their livestock vulnerable to devastating outbreaks.
- Ranchers have also requested specific guarantees from the government before agreeing to lift vaccination protocols.
Paraguay’s Cattle Industry Faces Uncertainty Over Fever Vaccination Policy
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Published August 23, 2025
A Contentious Debate: Vaccination vs. Eradication
paraguay’s bovine industry is embroiled in a heated debate over the future of vaccination policies for foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), also known as Aftosa fever, and Aphyosa fever.While the national government has initiated a plan for the eradication of Aphyosa fever without vaccination, notable opposition from ranchers and breeders is mounting. The core of the disagreement centers on the perceived risks of halting preventative vaccination measures.
Breeders Demand Continued Vaccination
Bovine breeders are strongly advocating for the continuation of vaccination programs, arguing that halting these measures would leave their livestock vulnerable to devastating outbreaks. According to reports from Diario Hoy, breeders believe that maintaining vaccination is crucial for protecting Paraguay’s cattle industry and ensuring the economic stability of rural communities. They emphasize the potential for significant financial losses and disruptions to trade if FMD were to re-emerge (Diario hoy).
Ranchers have also requested specific guarantees from the government before agreeing to lift vaccination protocols. The Nation reported on August 23, 2025, that these guarantees include assurances of adequate resources for monitoring and rapid response in the event of an outbreak (The Nation).
Government’s Eradication Plan and Producer Concerns
Despite the opposition, the Paraguayan government, through SANA ENVIDIA, has formally initiated a plan to eradicate Aphyosa fever without relying on vaccination (Field Bugs).However, producers, including those represented by ABC Color, remain skeptical, citing concerns about the potential for increased risk and economic hardship (ABC Color).
Concerns Extend to Afitase Fever
The debate isn’t limited to Aphyosa fever. Breeders are also voicing opposition to the potential suspension of vaccination against Afitase fever,fearing a resurgence of the disease. The Nation reported on August 22, 2025, that breeders believe continued vaccination is a necessary precaution to safeguard the national herd (the Nation).