By: Adeniyi Modupe. Freelance Health Reporter.
Africa Map showing Uganda.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2024. The recent escalation of Uganda's anthrax outbreak has raised significant public health concerns, with the Ministry of Health reporting 66 new suspected human cases and two additional deaths in the Kanungu district of southwestern Uganda. "The situation demands continued vigilance and coordinated response efforts," health officials emphasize as they monitor the outbreak's progression.
The current toll stands at 251 total cases, comprising 29 confirmed, 4 probable, and 218 suspected cases. Six deaths have been recorded among confirmed cases since the year's beginning. The outbreak's reach extends across 11 of Uganda's 146 districts, highlighting the geographic spread of this infectious disease.
"Prevention and control measures are our top priorities," states the Ministry of Health, as they implement a comprehensive response strategy. This includes enhanced surveillance, intensified risk communication, improved environmental sanitation and safe burial practices for deceased animals. In a significant preventive measure, authorities have successfully vaccinated over 8,000 animals in the Kanungu district alone.
Anthrax, caused by the bacteria Bacillus anthracis, poses a serious threat to both animals and humans. The disease manifests differently in animals, typically showing signs within 3-7 days of exposure. As one veterinary expert notes, "Early detection in animals is crucial as death can occur within hours of symptom onset." Infected animals may exhibit staggering, breathing difficulties, trembling and collapse, with dark blood potentially oozing from body openings.
The transmission to humans primarily occurs through contact with infected animals or consumption of contaminated meat, rather than person-to-person spread. "Understanding the transmission pathway is essential for preventing human cases," health workers emphasize. The disease presents in three forms in humans: inhalation, cutaneous and intestinal anthrax.
Each form carries its distinct characteristics and risks. Inhalation anthrax, often mistaken initially for a common cold, can progress to severe respiratory distress and shock. The intestinal form, resulting from consuming contaminated meat, begins with flu-like symptoms before advancing to severe gastrointestinal complications. Cutaneous anthrax, while potentially fatal if untreated, shows the most promising recovery rates with proper antibiotic treatment.
Early recognition and prompt medical intervention are key to survival, particularly for the more severe inhalation and intestinal forms. The Ministry of Health continues to monitor the situation closely, implementing measures to control the outbreak while protecting both human and animal populations in affected regions.
Source: Outbreak News Today
Related:
Uganda: Anthrax Patients Escape from Health Facility in Bukedea District
Uganda Battles Anthrax Outbreak With 185 Cases Reported Across Six Districts
Published: OCTOBER 23, 2024
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