Anthrax Outbreak Confirmed in Zamfara State, FG Issues Nationwide Alert
The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development has confirmed an outbreak of Anthrax in Zamfara State, prompting a nationwide alert and the implementation of immediate precautionary measures.
Anthrax, a bacterial zoonotic disease caused by Bacillus anthracis, affects warm-blooded animals such as cattle, sheep, goats, horses, and wildlife, and can also be transmitted to humans. The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) classifies Anthrax as a notifiable disease due to its high morbidity and mortality rates.
In a statement signed by Dr. Adamu Y. Dakogi, on behalf of the Director/CVON, the Ministry emphasized the symptoms of Anthrax in humans, which include fever, coughing, vomiting, headache, itching, nausea, diarrhea, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, and hemorrhages from major body openings.
The Ministry assured that Anthrax is preventable through coordinated risk assessments, targeted surveys, and ring vaccination of susceptible animals in high-risk areas. It has directed states bordering Zamfara to remain on high alert and closely monitor the situation.
Authorities in the affected and surrounding states have been urged to raise public awareness, activate their Rapid Response Teams, communicate potential risks, and strengthen disease surveillance efforts.
The Ministry's call for vigilance highlights the critical need for swift action to curb the spread of Anthrax and safeguard public health across the region.
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