Chronicle Editor
Thandeka Moyo-Ndlovu, [email protected]
THE World Health Organisation (WHO) has named Zimbabwe as one of the five top countries to record seasonal outbreaks of anthrax after a total of 1 166 suspected cases were reported since the beginning of the year.
Since the beginning of the year, 20 deaths have been reported in Zimbabwe, Kenya, Malawi, Uganda and Zambia.
Anthrax usually affects livestock like cattle, sheep and goats as well as wild herbivores. Humans can be infected if they are exposed to animals or contaminated animal products.
When anthrax spores are ingested from contaminated animal products, inhaled or enter the body through skin abrasions or cuts, they can germinate, multiply and produce toxins.
“A total of 1 166 suspected cases had been reported while 37 cases had been confirmed by laboratory tests. Five countries have seasonal outbreaks every year, but Zambia has experienced its worst since 2011 and Malawi reported its first human case this year. Uganda had reported 13 deaths,” said WHO.
“The outbreaks in all five countries were likely being driven by multiple factors, including climatic shocks, food insecurity, low-risk perception and exposure to the disease through handling the meat of infected animals.”
WHO said the epidemic is spreading in provinces located along the basin of the Zambezi, Kafue, and Luangwa rivers, which is an additional problem because these rivers also flow into Lake Kariba in Zimbabwe, Cahora Bassa in Mozambique and Lake Malawi, and the risk of anthrax transmission to neighbouring countries is increased.
“The risk for human health is high given the known population’s multiple exposures from handling the carcasses of animals that had died suddenly and eating meat from infected animals with resultant associated cutaneous and gastrointestinal anthrax,” read the statement.
“In health-care settings, it is crucial to enhance screening procedures specifically in areas where there is a known epidemiological risk of anthrax. It is imperative to anticipate and implement infection prevention and control measures promptly when cases are suspected.”
WHO said when caring for patients with draining anthrax lesions, implementing contact precautions is vital.
Members of the public are being warned against consuming, purchasing, or selling livestock suspected to have died from anthrax.
In addition, suspicious sickness or sudden death of animals or illegal movement of animals must be reported to the police and the Department of Veterinary Services.
Online Reporter