The Ministry of Health has confirmed an outbreak of anthrax in Kabira Sub-county, Kyotera District, which residents have been referring to as a strange disease for the past month.
Dr Edward Muwanga, the Kyotera District Health Officer (DHO), said that blood samples collected from three victims in Kyamayembe Village, Kabira Sub-county on November 23 tested positive for anthrax. Anthrax is caused by a bacteria known as Bacillus anthracis and is usually acquired by humans through contact with infected animals or contaminated animal products.
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Mr Richard Kalanzi, the chairperson of Kabira Sub-county, reported that three more people have succumbed to the disease, bringing the total death toll to 17. One of the victims was from Bbanda Village, another from Kyamayembe Village, and the most recent victim was identified as Ssenyonjo, a resident of Kyakataggwa in the same sub-county.
A team from the World Health Organisation (WHO) and district officials visited Kyamayembe Village to warn residents against consuming meat from dead animals. Dr Chris Opsen, an anthropologist from WHO, stressed that anthrax is not linked to witchcraft and urged residents to seek medical attention if they detect any cases in the community.
Early diagnosis is critical for effective treatment, according to Mr Emax Kintu, the Kyotera District health educator. He advised residents to seek medical services at the onset of symptoms and adhere to treatment. Prevention can be achieved by avoiding contact with diseased and dead animals, and proper disposal of carcasses is essential to limit the spread of the disease.
In July last year, the district experienced a similar outbreak, which was later identified as cellulitis. The illness caused vomiting, diarrhea, headache, and bleeding before death. Many people in the central region believe that cellulitis can only be treated by traditional healers, but doctors emphasize that it is treatable in hospitals.
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In September, one person died and more than 20 others were admitted to health facilities after consuming suspected contaminated meat. The Ministry of Health is urging residents to be cautious and avoid consuming meat from dead animals or undercooked meat to prevent the spread of anthrax.
