FG Alerts Nigerians About Anthrax Outbreak in Zamfara

The federal government, through the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, has issued an alert regarding a confirmed outbreak of Anthrax on a farm in Zamfara State.

The announcement was made in a statement released on Tuesday, January 21, by Mr. Ben Bem Goong, Director of the Information and Public Relations Department in the Ministry of Livestock Development.

Mr. Goong emphasized the need for heightened vigilance and proactive measures to manage the risks associated with the disease.

Anthrax, caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis, is a zoonotic disease that can affect various warm-blooded animals such as cattle, sheep, goats, horses, and wildlife, and it can also affect humans.

It is classified as a notifiable disease by the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) due to its potential to cause high morbidity and mortality.

In both animals and humans, symptoms of Anthrax include fever, coughing, vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, headaches, itching, and bleeding from major openings.

While Anthrax can be prevented through coordinated efforts such as risk assessment, surveys, and ring vaccination of susceptible animals in high-risk areas, prompt detection and response are crucial to containing its spread.

In response to the outbreak, the Ministry has urged stakeholders, particularly those in states bordering Zamfara, to take immediate action to prevent the further 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,” Goong said.