Iraq Sanctions
* Re “End U.N. Sanctions Against Iraq,” Commentary, Aug 20: An additional reason to end these sanctions is the effect they are having in the region, especially on countries that traditionally are strong allies of the U.S., e.g. Jordan.
A lack of veterinary vaccines (its vaccine facility was destroyed because of suspected biological weapons manufacture) and the infrastructure to deliver them to livestock owners have resulted in serious outbreaks of foot and mouth disease in cattle, sheep and goats during the last 6-12 months in Iraq. This very infectious disease causes high mortalities in young animals. A similar outbreak has also occurred in Jordan, which circumstantially is likely to be related to the Iraqi outbreak.
Also screwworm infestation in animals is an emerging problem in Iraq and this has human implications, as persons in close contact may also become infected.
ASHLEY ROBINSON PhD
Associate Dean (Preclinical Affairs)
College of Veterinary Medicine
Western Univ. of Health Sciences
Pomona
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