Zimbabwe intensifies efforts to tackle anthrax outbreaks  

ZIMBABWE – Zimbabwe’s Department of Veterinary Services is ramping up measures to address a concerning rise in anthrax cases, highlighting the critical public health risks posed by the disease. 

Anthrax is a deadly infectious disease caused by Bacillus anthracis or Bacillus cereus biovar anthracis. It can affect both humans and animals and can be transmitted through contact with infected animals or contaminated animal products.

Recent outbreaks in Zimbabwe have prompted authorities to implement widespread vaccination campaigns, particularly during August and September, to protect livestock and human populations before the festive season.  

The Ministry of Health and Child Care’s latest Weekly Disease Surveillance Report documented 19 new anthrax cases in the week ending December 1, 2024. 

Although no fatalities were reported, the distribution of cases across Gokwe South (6), Gokwe North (8), Sanyati (3), and Bikita (2) underscores the geographical spread of the infection.  

So far this year, Zimbabwe has reported 487 anthrax cases, making vigilance and swift response more critical than ever.  

Public warnings and preventative measures  

Dr Reverend Spargo, acting deputy director of the Department of Veterinary Services, has warned against the risks posed by unreported cases and consuming contaminated meat. 

“The confiscation of meat that tested positive for anthrax serves as a stark reminder,” he stated. “Eating meat from infected animals can be deadly, and over 70% of emerging human diseases originate from animals, which calls for heightened vigilance.”

Dr. Spargo further emphasised the legal and health implications of selling uninspected meat. 

He advised families to purchase meat only from registered abattoirs and butcheries and avoid unregulated sellers, especially during the festive season when demand for meat surges.  

Seasonal vulnerabilities  

Anthrax, a soil-borne infection, poses heightened risks during the rainy season. As livestock graze on fresh grass near the soil, they become more susceptible to ingesting anthrax spores. 

This risk is compounded by seasonal agricultural activities such as land preparation, which disturb the soil and increase exposure to bacteria.  

In response to the outbreaks, Zimbabwe’s Department of Veterinary Services and the Ministry of Health have launched joint awareness campaigns to educate the public on anthrax prevention. 

These initiatives aim to encourage the reporting of suspected cases and promote safe practices, including the vaccination of livestock and proper meat inspection.  

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