The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development in Nigeria has officially confirmed the country’s first case of anthrax. Anthrax is a disease caused by the spore-forming bacterium Bacillus and predominantly affects livestock like cattle, sheep, and goats. However, it can also infect humans who come into contact with contaminated animal products.
The Chief Veterinary Officer of Nigeria, Dr. Columba T. Vakuru, issued a statement on July 16, revealing that animals on a farm in Suleja, Niger State, showed symptoms of anthrax. The farm was a multi-specie animal farm comprising of cattle, sheep, and goats. Some of the animals displayed symptoms like oozing of blood from their body openings, such as the anus, nose, eyes, and ears.
A Rapid Response team, including federal and state One Health professionals, conducted preliminary investigations and collected samples from the sick animals. Laboratory tests at the National Veterinary Research Institute confirmed the diagnosis, marking the first recorded case of anthrax in Nigeria in recent years.
The federal government had previously issued a warning to Nigerians after an anthrax outbreak was reported in Northern Ghana, leading to the death of all infected animals. As a precautionary measure, Nigerians are urged to report cases of animals bleeding from body openings to veterinary authorities or agriculture extension workers promptly.
It is essential to note that the blood of an anthrax-infected animal does not clot. If anyone encounters a dead or sick animal with such symptoms, they should avoid handling or moving it and immediately seek assistance from a veterinary doctor or authorities at the Ministry of Agriculture in their state. Vigilance and timely reporting are crucial to prevent further spread and ensure public safety.
