The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has officially announced the first case of anthrax in Nigeria. The confirmation comes after animals exhibiting symptoms of anthrax were reported on a farm in Suleja, Niger State. The Chief Veterinary Officer of Nigeria, Dr. Columba T. Vakuru, issued a statement providing details of the case and urging Nigerians to be vigilant.

Anthrax Outbreak and Diagnostic Confirmation:

A multi-species animal farm located in Gajiri, along the Abuja-Kaduna expressway in Suleja LGA, Niger State, reported animals showing signs of anthrax infection. Symptoms observed included bleeding from body openings such as the anus, nose, eyes, and ears. A Rapid Response team, comprising federal and state One Health professionals, conducted preliminary investigations and collected samples from the affected animals. Subsequent laboratory tests conducted by the National Veterinary Research Institute confirmed the diagnosis, marking the first recorded case of anthrax in Nigeria in recent years.

Previous Anthrax Alert and Mode of Transmission:

The Nigerian government had previously issued a warning following an anthrax outbreak in Northern Ghana, where all infected animals had died. Anthrax primarily affects livestock such as cattle, sheep, and goats but can also infect humans through contact with infected animals or contaminated animal products. Transmission can occur through direct contact with infected animals or through the handling of contaminated objects. Inhalation of anthrax spores can also lead to infection.

Preventive Measures and Reporting:

The statement emphasized the importance of immediate reporting of cases involving animals exhibiting bleeding from body openings to veterinary authorities or agriculture extension workers. It advised against processing or moving dead or sick animals and urged individuals to report such cases promptly to veterinary doctors or the ministry of agriculture in their respective states. The statement also highlighted the fact that the blood of an anthrax-infected animal does not clot, serving as a potential indicator of the disease.

With the official confirmation of the anthrax case in Nigeria, the government urges citizens to be vigilant and report any suspicious cases promptly. Heightened awareness, immediate reporting, and adherence to preventive measures are crucial in containing the spread of anthrax and safeguarding both animal and human health.

Source: Premium Times