Namibia reports suspected anthrax outbreak, more than 100 affected

By NewsDesk @infectiousdiseasenews

Namibian agriculture and health ministries are reporting 115 suspected human anthrax cases in the northern regions of the country, according to local media.

Health and social services executive director, Ben Nangombe said, “So far, three people have been admitted but no deaths were reported.”

The suspected outbreaks have occurred in the Kunene (104) and Zambezi (11) regions.

Anthrax contaminated meat is linked to the outbreak in Otjitanga village, Kunene region while tainted hippo appears linked to Katima Mulilo district, Zambezi region.

The Namibian reports:

A total of 68 small stock and 39 hippos have been reported dead.

“Livestock deaths suspected to be caused by anthrax were detected at Otjitanga village in the Kunene region since 25 September 2019,” the statement said.

“While in the Zambezi region, deaths of hippos at the lake of Liambezi were detected on the 29 August 2019.

Anthrax is a serious infectious disease caused by gram-positive, rod-shaped bacteria known as Bacillus anthracis. Anthrax can be found naturally in soil and commonly affects domestic and wild animals around the world. Although it is rare, people can get sick with anthrax if they come in contact with infected animals or contaminated animal products.





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