Mr Gachingiri said they would not categorise the reported cases as necrotic attack as farm shortcomings such as nitrogen nutrient deficiency has similar symptoms, including leaf yellowing and withering.
ALRMP in Kieni said infections in the four locations have been characterised by yellowing of maize plant at fourth week, mottling and flecking.
“We are asking the farmers to hold their horses until we are able to give appropriate advice,” Gachigiri said on Sunday.
In cases of confirmed viral infections, farmers are advised to uproot the entire infected crop and burn.
“We strongly advise against feeding domestic animals on affected maize as the organisms would find themselves back in form of manure and continue wreaking havoc in subsequent seasons,” said Gachigiri.
