Five people have died while nine others have been hospitalised following a suspected anthrax outbreak in kashozi Division, Sheema District, prompting authorities to issue a public health warning against consuming meat from animals that die under unclear circumstances.
According to a communication dated July 14, 2026, from Sheema Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Asimwe Janie Muhindo to the Kasese District RDC, the victims reportedly consumed meat from animal carcasses believed to have been infected.
The RDC said the person who slaughtered the animal died on the spot, while a woman who prepared the meat also succumbed. Nine other people who ate the meat are currently receiving treatment in hospital.
RDC Muhindo stated that human and animal samples have been submitted to the Government laboratory for testing to confirm whether the deaths were caused by anthrax.
As a precautionary measure, RDC Muhindo urged residents, particularly in neighbouring Kasese District where meat locally known as “Sanga meat” is commonly consumed, to temporarily stop eating such meat until laboratory results are released.
She stressed that prevention remains the best approach as health authorities continue investigating the suspected outbreak.
Copies of the communication were also sent to the Kasese District Chairperson, the District Health Officer and the District Veterinary Officer to strengthen surveillance and public awareness.
