Anthrax Outbreak Claims Three Lives in Uganda

Synopsis

An anthrax outbreak in Uganda's northeastern and western regions has resulted in three fatalities and several hospitalizations, according to the Ministry of Health. The outbreak has raised concerns about public health and livestock safety in the affected areas.

Key Takeaways

Three fatalities reported due to anthrax.
Outbreak spans northeastern and western regions.
Consumption of contaminated meat linked to deaths.
Ongoing health monitoring in affected districts.
History of anthrax outbreaks in Uganda.

Kampala, April 11 (NationPress) The Ministry of Health in Uganda announced on Friday that an outbreak of anthrax in the northeastern and western parts of the country has resulted in the deaths of three individuals and has sent numerous others to the hospital.

The ministry's health situation update indicated that two fatalities were reported, including one case confirmed by laboratory tests and another suspected case, in Buhweju district located in western Uganda. Additionally, there are 11 other suspected cases in this district.

In another instance, a 45-year-old woman succumbed to suspected anthrax in the Moroto district, situated in the northeastern region of the country.

The cause of her death was linked to consuming meat from a cow that had perished three days prior in Apetawoi village, which was then sold raw at the Chokolias community market, as reported by health officials.

"Reports indicate that all individuals who consumed the meat, approximately 25 people, exhibited similar signs and symptoms, albeit less severe than those of the deceased," the report stated.

In the Kabale district, also in the west, seven individuals are suspected to be infected with anthrax, according to the report from Xinhua news agency.

Previously, in September, an anthrax outbreak in Kanungu district, located in southwestern Uganda, resulted in at least three fatalities and over 43 reported cases.

Moreover, numerous livestock deaths occurred, with 65 cattle, 10 goats, and three sheep lost. A mass vaccination of livestock was initiated in the district to prevent further spread of the disease.

A quarantine on the sale of livestock, including cattle, goats, sheep, pigs, and related products, has been enforced in Kanungu since the anthrax outbreak was declared on September 17.

Anthrax is caused by a bacterium known as Bacillus anthracis and primarily impacts herbivorous animals, although other mammals and some birds can also be affected. According to the World Health Organization, humans typically contract the disease through contact with infected animals or exposure to contaminated animal products.