Bushenyi District reports anthrax outbreak
Bushenyi district has reported an outbreak of anthrax resulting in nine infections and one reported death according to Dr. Eliab Nuwamanya, the district’s acting health officer.
Dr. Nuwamanya stated that the disease which is contracted through the consumption of anthrax-contaminated meat has primarily affected residents in Ruhumuro and Kyabugimbi sub-counties. All the nine patients exhibiting symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and fever have been admitted to Kyabugimbi Health Centre IV for treatment.
This is not the first instance of anthrax in Bushenyi; last October, an outbreak in the villages of Kafunjo and Rwenyena in Kitagata parish, Kyeizooba sub-county, resulted in the deaths of two individuals.
Dr. Robert Natukunda, the district’s veterinary officer has confirmed that four cattle have also succumbed to the disease during this current outbreak. He emphasized the need for strict adherence to guidelines from the district veterinary department to control the spread of anthrax. These guidelines include monitoring both animal and human health, conducting regular tests in high-risk areas, reporting any suspicious illnesses or deaths in humans and animals and enforcing restrictions on animal movements, along with proper handling and disposal of animal carcasses.
Moreover, Dr. Natukunda highlighted the importance of early testing, which allows for vaccination of healthy animals against the disease.
The Resident District Commissioner for Bushenyi, Emmy Ngabirano has urged the community to avoid purchasing meat from unauthorized butcheries to minimize the risk of infection. Ngabirano assured residents that the district will conduct educational campaigns to raise awareness about the risks of anthrax and its prevention.
