Christmas killed by anthrax in Ssembabule
Authorities in Sembabule District are considering a ban on livestock movement following an anthrax outbreak. The disease has spread to the Sub counties of Nabitanga, Kyeera, Lwemiyaga, and Ntuutsi, affecting both animals and humans.
Dr. Angelo Ssali, the District Veterinary Officer confirmed the outbreak last week which has resulted in the deaths of over 25 cows and two people in Nabitanga sub-county due to contact with infected carcasses. He expressed concern about the community’s reluctance to follow precautionary measures contributing to the disease’s rapid spread across the district.
Ssali warned that this resistance may lead the District Taskforce to enforce a quarantine on livestock movement as a containment strategy. He noted that despite warnings against handling or consuming meat from suspiciously dead animals, some residents continue to slaughter them, increasing their risk of infection.
Dr. Ismail Asiimwe, the Assistant Health Technical Officer at the Greater Masaka Regional Emergency Operations Center stated that field teams are assessing the situation to provide an effective response. They plan to collaborate with district veterinary and public health officers for public sensitization meetings to raise awareness about the disease.
So far, seven people have been identified as infected with anthrax and are receiving treatment.
