The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development has confirmed an outbreak of anthrax in Zamfara State, urging heightened vigilance and proactive measures to mitigate the disease’s risks.
In an official statement issued yesterday by the Director of Information and Public Relations, Ben Bem Goong, the ministry emphasized the seriousness of the outbreak, noting that anthrax is a zoonotic disease caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis. It affects various warm-blooded animals, including cattle, sheep, goats, horses, and wildlife, as well as humans.
Describing anthrax as a notifiable disease recognized by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), the ministry highlighted its potential to cause high morbidity and mortality. Common symptoms in animals and humans include fever, coughing, vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, headaches, itching, and bleeding from major body openings.
The ministry called on livestock farmers and stakeholders to take immediate preventive actions, stating:
“Anthrax is preventable through coordinated measures such as risk assessments, surveys, and ring vaccination of susceptible animals in high-risk areas. Prompt detection and response are critical to containing its spread.”
In response to the situation, the ministry has urged states bordering Zamfara to implement strategies to prevent further spread and called on the public to report any unusual illnesses in animals or humans promptly.
“The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development appeals for heightened vigilance among stakeholders and the public to adhere to preventive guidelines issued by relevant authorities. This is crucial in safeguarding public health and mitigating the disease’s impact,” the statement added.
Comments