Zambia is grappling with its most significant anthrax outbreak in a decade, as reported by the World Health Organization (WHO). As of late November 2023, the country has recorded 684 suspected cases and four fatalities, marking a resurgence of the deadly disease since the large-scale outbreak in 2011, which saw 511 suspected cases.
Anthrax, caused by the spore-forming bacteria Bacillus anthracis, is not known for person-to-person transmission. Instead, individuals become infected by ingesting spores from contaminated animal products, inhaling them, or through cuts in the skin. Symptoms can manifest within hours to three weeks, depending on the type of exposure.
Cutaneous anthrax, the most common form in humans, initially appears as an itchy bump that evolves into a black sore. Additional symptoms may include headaches, muscle aches, fever, and vomiting. Gastrointestinal anthrax, which can be more severe, presents with symptoms of food poisoning but may progress to intense abdominal pain, bloody vomiting, and severe diarrhea.
The WHO emphasizes the importance of avoiding the handling and consumption of meat from animals that died suddenly or from uncertain sources. The majority of human anthrax cases result from contact with infected carcasses or related products.
The outbreak’s origins trace back to May, with the first cases reported, followed by 26 individuals in June developing sores after consuming meat from three hippopotamus carcasses. Limited supplies of vaccines for livestock and humans are available, with ongoing meat inspections in abattoirs and butcher shops.
Acknowledging the high risk to public health due to multiple exposures, the WHO underscores the necessity of preventive measures. In the summer of 2023, an expert team, including the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), engaged in monitoring and surveillance in affected Zambian communities. The FAO, supported by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), facilitated outbreak investigations and confirmed anthrax as the culprit behind the illnesses linked to infected meat consumption.
In response to the crisis, FAO has conducted workshops and training sessions in 2023, not only in Zambia but also in Ghana, Kenya, and Nigeria, aiming to enhance detection methods and community awareness surrounding anthrax outbreaks. Local authorities are actively collaborating with international organizations to contain the outbreak and educate communities on the dangers associated with handling and consuming potentially contaminated meat.