A Historical Glance at Eradication of Glander Disease in Turkey

Abstract

Although the first knowledges on glander disease are seen in classic civilizations, the eradication program for this disease began at the end of 19th century. This success is achieved by isolation of "mallein" from the agent of disease. The requisition of animals from the individuals without a control for the army and to release sick animals made glander disease a vicious circle in Turkey. However at the beginning of 20th century bacteriological studies and legal constructions for the disease began, the necessity of equine during in the Balkan Wars, First World War and The Independent War obstructed a wide struggle system. Nevertheless, in the period, following the first years of announcement of Turkish Republic, the studies of scientists were applied to this area. Also in nation-wide a searching investigation on glander diseases was made. Because of the insufficiency of legal measures and not to control the animal transportations, glander disease could not be eradicated for a long period. The "National Wide Glander Eradication Project" which was applied in 2000 by "Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs General Directorate of Protection and Control" was completed in 2001. By the end of this project was reported that glander disease is eradicated in Turkey. The aim of this study was to provide detailed information and evaluate the combat of glander disease which performed against in Turkey within the scope of history.