Maj. Gen. David Kasura-Kyomukama Permanent Secretary Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) informs the public of a suspected outbreak of anthrax at a farm in Birongo 1, Rwambu Parish, Kijongo Sub-county, Ibanda District.
According to Kyomukama Seven cattle have died, and four individuals who came into contact with of one of the dead animals have developed skin lesions consistent with cutaneous anthrax.
Anthrax is a very dangerous zoonotic disease caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis, which forms spores capable of surviving in the environment for over a century.
Transmission occurs through ingestion, inhalation, or contact through the skin of infected animals or contaminated materials.
Immediate measures undertaken by MAAIF:
The Ministry will carry out joint veterinary and public health investigations, with samples submitted for laboratory confirmation and vaccinate the affected farm, and ring vaccination is ongoing in surrounding areas.
The ministry will further supervise disposal of the carcasses of dead animals, as well as environmental decontamination are in effect to prevent the spread of the spore.
Public Advisory:
the Permanent Secretary has urged farmers and the general public to report sudden animal deaths to your respective District Veterinary Officers and cooperate with vaccination and movement control teams.
The public Has been advised to avoid handling or consuming meat from dead or visibly sick animals.
The public has been advised to purchase meat only from certified slaughter facilities under veterinary supervision and avoid avoid spreading unverified information; rely on official updates from MAAIF and local authorities.
About Anthrax:
Anthrax is a zoonotic disease affecting both animals and humans. It does not spread from person to person but can be contracted through contact with infected carcasses,consumption of contaminated meat, or inhalation of spores from animal by-products.