FG Confirms Anthrax Outbreak in Zamfara, Urges Heightened Vigilance

The Federal Government has announced the outbreak of Anthrax disease on a farm in Zamfara State. Alerting the public to the epidemic and potential spread, the Ministry of Livestock Development sought heightened vigilance and proactive measures to mitigate associated risks.

According to the ministry, Anthrax, caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis, is a zoonotic disease that could affect various warm-blooded animals such as cattle, sheep, goats, horses, and wildlife, as well as humans.

The government noted: “It is listed as a notifiable disease by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) due to its potential to cause high morbidity and mortality.

“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.

“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.” Therefore, it called on stakeholders, especially states bordering Zamfara, to take immediate steps to prevent the 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 Federal Ministry of Livestock Development remains committed to collaborating with all stakeholders to ensure a swift and effective response,” the administration added.