Government Responds Rapidly To Anthrax Outbreak Reported In Western Province

Kelvin Kampamba, Western Province Fisheries and Livestock Coordinator confirmed today that an outbreak of anthrax had been reported in Western Province.

 Anthrax is a serious infection caused by bacteria found in soil and generally affects domestic and wild animals globally. Animals can be infected with the disease by breathing or ingesting spores in contaminated soil, plants or water.

 The outbreak has prompted the government to order over 40,000 doses of the anthrax vaccine.

 Dr Kampamba explained that field staff have already started vaccinating animals in the affected districts.

 Further, Mukuni Mubita, Mongu District Veterinary Officer, explained that the vaccination program had been met with a positive response from farmers.

 He said, “So far we are moving on well with the vaccination exercise. Cattle owners are also responding positively.”

 One farmer in Nalikwanda, Boyd Silumesi, thanked the government for the rapid provision of vaccinations.

Meanwhile, Dr Kampamba, also outlined another measure to protect animals. He explained that officials have begun branding animals to keep track of their movements.

He said, “Cattle branding is an integral part of the disease control system as animals are easily identified during movement.”