FG Alerts Public to Anthrax Outbreak in Zamfara

The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development has issued a public alert regarding an anthrax outbreak in Zamfara State. Mr. Ben Goong, Director of Information and Public Relations in the ministry, confirmed the outbreak occurred on a farm in the state. Anthrax, a zoonotic disease caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis, affects both animals—such as cattle, sheep, goats, horses, and wildlife—and humans. It can cause high morbidity and mortality and spreads through contact with infectious spores present in contaminated animal products or by-products. Symptoms of anthrax include fever, coughing, vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, swollen lymph nodes, sore throat, headaches, itching, and bleeding from major body openings. The ministry has urged stakeholders and states neighboring Zamfara to take immediate preventive measures to curb the disease’s spread. The public is advised to: Report unusual illnesses in animals or humans. Follow preventive guidelines issued by authorities. “Anthrax can be prevented through coordinated efforts, including risk assessment, surveys, and ring vaccination of animals in high-risk areas. Prompt detection and response are essential to containing its spread,” Goong stated. He added that the ministry is committed to collaborating with stakeholders to ensure an effective response to the outbreak.