The Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) has swiftly activated an emergency response following reports of a suspected anthrax outbreak in Birongo I Village, Rwambu Parish, Kijongo Sub-county, Ibanda District. The incident, which has resulted in the deaths of seven cattle and four human infections, has triggered a coordinated government intervention to contain and manage the threat.

According to a statement issued by Maj. Gen. David Kasura-Kyomukama, the Permanent Secretary of MAAIF, the affected individuals developed skin lesions consistent with cutaneous anthrax after handling one of the carcasses. They are currently receiving medical attention under close supervision by health professionals.

Understanding the Threat

Anthrax is a highly dangerous zoonotic disease caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis, which forms resilient spores capable of surviving in the environment for over a century. Infection occurs through inhalation, ingestion, or direct skin contact with infected animals or contaminated animal products. While it does not spread from person to person, its persistence in the environment and potential for rapid transmission among animals make it a serious veterinary and public health concern.

Government’s Immediate Response

In an effort to contain the outbreak, MAAIF has deployed joint veterinary and public health teams to conduct investigations and collect samples for laboratory confirmation. The Ministry’s report outlines several emergency measures currently in place:

• Emergency vaccination of livestock at the affected farm, with ring vaccination ongoing in surrounding areas.
• Supervised carcass disposal and environmental decontamination to eliminate the anthrax spores.
• Quarantine restrictions in Kijongo Sub-county to control animal movement.
• Community sensitization campaigns on early disease identification, prevention, and reporting procedures.

“We urge the public to remain calm but vigilant. The Ministry is fully engaged in containing the outbreak and ensuring that both animal and human health are protected,” said Maj. Gen. Kasura-Kyomukama.

Public Advisory

MAAIF has issued strong guidelines for farmers and communities to prevent further spread:

• Report sudden animal deaths to district veterinary authorities immediately.
• Avoid handling or consuming meat from dead or visibly ill animals.
• Cooperate with vaccination and quarantine enforcement teams.
• Seek medical attention if exposed to dead animals or develop suspicious skin sores or fever.
• Buy meat only from certified slaughter facilities under veterinary inspection.
• Refrain from opening carcasses, as this may spread spores into the environment.
• Rely solely on verified information from MAAIF and district authorities.

Anthrax at a Glance

Anthrax can affect both animals and humans, but it does not spread person-to-person. It appears in three forms:

• Cutaneous anthrax, contracted through skin contact during slaughter or handling.
• Gastrointestinal anthrax, caused by consuming contaminated meat.
• Respiratory anthrax, resulting from inhaling spores especially among workers in wool, hide, or leather industries.

Regular livestock vaccination, safe carcass disposal, and community awareness remain the most effective methods of prevention.

Safeguarding Uganda’s Biosecurity

The Ministry reaffirmed its dedication to the One Health approach, which integrates animal, human, and environmental health surveillance. Working in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, district veterinary offices, and local authorities, MAAIF continues to strengthen national systems for early detection and rapid response to zoonotic threats.

As investigations and vaccination efforts continue, the Ministry assures the nation that the situation is under firm control, and all containment protocols are being rigorously implemented.