Agriculture authorities in Chiradzulu District say at least 26 cows and 3 goats have died of the Rift Valley Fever (RVF) outbreak in the Thumbwe Extension Planning Area.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Water Development, confirmed the outbreak on May 8, 2026, in Chiradzulu and Mulanje districts, under Blantyre Agricultural Development Division.
RVF is a mosquito-borne viral disease that affects domestic animals, particularly cattle, sheep and goats. It is caused by the RVF virus and is characterised by high fever and widespread abortions in affected herds.
Speaking to #MBCDigital on the current situation, Animal Health and Livestock Development Officer, Jacqueline Kapida Msiska, said at first, the outbreak affected cows only, but recently it has extended to goats, killing 26 and killing 3.
Kapida Msiska said 287 cows are currently sick.
Meanwhile, she said the office, in collaboration with other stakeholders like the police and health, is sensitising people on the outbreak, warning them against contacting sick or dead animals to prevent further spread of the virus to humans.
The office has further restricted the slaughter or movement of animals to quell the situation.
Affected dairy farmer Falesi Tchale, who lost a cow, has asked authorities to assist with a vaccine to save the remaining herds. She said the situation has affected her plans for growing the trade.
By Chrissie Mainjeni, Chiradzulu
