Anthrax outbreak hits Zamfara, livestock ministry raises alarm

The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development has officially raised the alarm on the outbreak of anthrax in Zamfara state.

The Ministry on Tuesday, called for heightened vigilance and proactive measures to mitigate associated risks.

“The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development wishes to officially notify the public of a confirmed outbreak of Anthrax in a farm in Zamfara State. This development calls for heightened vigilance and proactive measures to mitigate the risks associated with the disease,” the livestock ministry said in a statement.

“Anthrax, caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis, is a zoonotic disease that can affect various warm-blooded animals such as cattle, sheep, goats, horses, and wildlife, as well as humans. It is listed as a notifiable disease by the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) due to its potential to cause high morbidity and mortality”.

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In animals and humans, symptoms of Anthrax include: Fever, coughing, vomiting, nausea, diarrhoea, sore throat and swollen lymph nodes, headaches, itching and bleeding from major openings.

The statement noted that while Anthrax is preventable through coordinated efforts such as risk assessment, surveys, and ring vaccination of susceptible animals in high-risk areas, prompt detection and response are critical to containing its spread.

“In light of the outbreak, the Ministry calls on stakeholders, especially states bordering Zamfara, to take immediate steps to prevent further spread of the disease. We urge the public to remain vigilant, report any unusual illnesses in animals or humans, and adhere to all preventive guidelines issued by relevant authorities.” The statement added

The statement added that the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development remains committed to collaborating with all stakeholders to ensure a swift and effective response.