The Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) has activated emergency response measures following a suspected outbreak of anthrax in Birongo I Village, Rwambu Parish, Kijongo Sub-County in Ibanda District.
According to the Ministry, seven head of cattle have died at the affected farm, and four individuals who came into contact with one of the carcasses have developed skin lesions consistent with cutaneous anthrax. They are currently undergoing medical care.
Anthrax is a highly contagious zoonotic disease caused by Bacillus anthracis, a bacterium that forms spores capable of surviving in the environment for over 100 years. Infection can occur through contact with contaminated carcasses, ingestion of infected meat, or inhalation of spores, particularly in industries handling wool or leather.
MAAIF’s Immediate Response Measures
To contain the spread of the suspected outbreak, MAAIF has implemented the following actions:
- Quarantine restrictions have been imposed in Kijongo Sub-County.
- Emergency vaccination of livestock has been conducted at the affected farm, with ring vaccination ongoing in surrounding areas.
- Joint veterinary and public health investigations are underway, with samples submitted for laboratory confirmation.
- Environmental decontamination and supervised carcass disposal are being enforced.
- Community sensitization on identifying, preventing, and reporting anthrax cases is ongoing.
Ministry Issues Public Advisory
MAAIF has urged farmers and members of the public to take the following precautions:
- Do not handle or consume meat from dead or visibly sick animals.
- Purchase meat only from certified slaughter facilities under veterinary supervision.
- Report sudden animal deaths to District Veterinary Officers immediately.
- Seek medical attention if you have handled dead animals and develop skin sores or fever.
- Cooperate with vaccination and movement control teams.
- Avoid spreading unverified information and rely on official communication from MAAIF and local authorities.
About Anthrax
Anthrax can manifest in three major forms:
| Form | Transmission Method |
|---|---|
| Cutaneous | Skin contact during slaughter or handling |
| Gastrointestinal | Eating contaminated meat |
| Respiratory | Inhalation of spores, especially in leather/wool industries |
While anthrax does not spread from person to person, it remains a serious public health and livestock threat if not contained swiftly.
Maj. Gen. David Kasura-Kyomukama, the Permanent Secretary of MAAIF, reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to safeguarding both animal and human health.
“Annual livestock vaccination, safe carcass disposal, and timely reporting are critical in preventing anthrax outbreaks. We urge the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with veterinary teams on the ground.”
MAAIF will continue to update the public as laboratory results are confirmed and containment efforts progress.
