Uganda Battles Anthrax Outbreak With 185 Cases Reported Across Six Districts

By: Modupe Adeniyi. Freelance Health Reporter.

Uganda map showing location of district where human anthrax outbreak has been reported.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2024. In recent weeks, Uganda has been faced with a significant anthrax outbreak, raising alarm bells across the country and neighboring regions. The Uganda Ministry of Health (MOH) has reported a surge in human anthrax cases, with the situation rapidly evolving in several districts.

As of September 28, 59 additional human anthrax cases were suspected in the Kanungu district, located in southwestern Uganda. This brings the total number of cases to 185, with 20 confirmed cases and four deaths among the confirmed cases, resulting in a case fatality rate (CFR) of 20%. The outbreak has spread to six of Uganda's 146 districts, including Amudat (98 cases), Bukedea (3 cases), Ibanda (2 cases), Kanungu (59 cases, 1 death), Kazo (22 cases, 3 deaths) and Kyotera (1 case). 

Dr. Jane Aceng, Uganda's Minister of Health, stated, "We are taking this outbreak very seriously and have mobilized resources to contain its spread. Our priority is to protect both human and animal populations from this deadly disease." The impact of this outbreak extends beyond human cases. Authorities have reported 645 suspected animal deaths due to anthrax in the Amudat, Bukedea, Kanungu, and Kazo districts. This animal toll highlights the zoonotic nature of the disease and the interconnectedness of human and animal health.

In response to the crisis, the MOH has implemented a multi-faceted approach. They have enhanced surveillance measures, increased risk communication to the public, improved environmental sanitation practices and are ensuring the safe burial of dead animals. Additionally, a vaccination campaign for livestock is underway, with 4,763 animals vaccinated in the Kanungu district alone.

Dr. Samuel Kazibwe, a veterinary expert at Makerere University, emphasized the importance of animal vaccination: "Vaccinating livestock is crucial in breaking the transmission cycle of anthrax. It not only protects the animals but also reduces the risk to humans who interact with them." The anthrax outbreak is not confined to Uganda. Neighboring countries have also reported cases, with the Democratic Republic of the Congo confirming 10 cases and 2 deaths, while Kenya has reported 7 cases with no fatalities. This regional spread shows the need for coordinated efforts to control the disease.

Anthrax, caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis, primarily affects livestock and wild animals, particularly ruminants like cattle, sheep and goats. The bacteria can form spores that survive in the environment for decades, making eradication challenging. Human infection occurs through handling contaminated animals or animal products, consuming undercooked meat from infected animals, or in rare cases, through intentional release of spores. It's important to note that there are no reported cases of person-to-person transmission of anthrax.

The disease manifests in humans in three forms: cutaneous (skin), gastrointestinal, and inhalation anthrax. Each type varies in severity, with inhalation anthrax being the most dangerous, having a case fatality rate of 80% or higher if left untreated. As the situation continues to develop, health authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspected cases promptly. The outbreak serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges in controlling zoonotic diseases and the importance of a One Health approach in addressing such public health crises.

Source: Outbreak News Today 

Related:

Uganda: Anthrax Patients Escape from Health Facility in Bukedea District 

Published: OCTOBER 11, 2024

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