Nigerian Government Confirms Anthrax Outbreak in Zamfara, Urges Public Caution

The Federal Government has confirmed an outbreak of Anthrax in Zamfara State, urging the public to take precautionary measures.

The announcement was made on Tuesday in Abuja.

The Director of Information and Public Relations at the Ministry of Livestock Development, Ben Goong, disclosed that the outbreak occurred on a farm in Zamfara.

Anthrax is a serious disease caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis. It affects animals like cattle, sheep, and goats, and can also infect humans.

The disease spreads through contact with spores found in infected animal products or by-products. Symptoms include fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and bleeding from major body openings.

The government has advised neighboring states to take urgent steps to prevent the spread of the disease. Authorities urge citizens to report any unusual illnesses in animals or humans.

Officials stressed that Anthrax is preventable through measures such as risk assessment and vaccination of animals in high-risk areas. Prompt detection is crucial to controlling the outbreak.

The Ministry of Livestock Development assured Nigerians of its commitment to working with stakeholders for a swift and effective response to the outbreak.