Dozens of cows and calves dying from a mysterious disease in Agua Caliente, Uruguay - 25th Apr 2011

Dozens of cows and calves dying from a mysterious disease in Agua Caliente, village of El Porvenir, Francisco Morazan, where the population is alarmed by the huge losses they are taking

In this community these are Tragic moments, as many people rely on the sale of Milk from Cows, another farmer lost his only pair of oxen for plowing in the winter.

Witnesses have said that the cows die suddenly and without warning others mentioned that the cows started dying after a heavy rain came to the area.

But some believe that the cause of death may be linked to rabies as witnesses have told of fighting between the cows before being overcome by a seizure and collapsing to the ground.

There are also views that the water from the Rio Grande in the area were many algae was discovered before rains started during Easter.

"These cows are dying without getting sick, nor are the lacking grass or water as this remains on the banks of the Rio Grande," said Yonny Mencia, who lost the only pair of oxen he had.

The farmer said that when livestock owners go to their pastures they are surprised when more cows are found dead, although they had already been medicated "and doesnt affect the horses and donkeys."

Several have already lost more than ten of their cattle in recent days. It is said that at present a response to 6.000 lempiras costs, so the losses are substantial.

"I had a family just yesterday returning from their pasture and pulled her hair wild, and almost crying she said two more of her milk cows have died and please help to find a way of disposing of them," Mencia said. Original Article in Spanish >>>>