Staff Reporter 

The Department of Veterinary Services is ramping up efforts to curb anthrax outbreaks amid rising public health concerns.

With a significant spike in cases, authorities have implemented preventative vaccination campaigns, particularly in August and September of last year when rains started to protect both livestock and humans.

The latest Weekly Disease Surveillance Report from the Ministry of Health and Child Care highlighted 19 new anthrax cases for the week ending December 1, 2024. Fortunately, no fatalities were reported, but the distribution of cases across Gokwe South (6), Gokwe North (8), Sanyati (3), and Bikita (2) underscores the urgent need for vigilance.

So far this year, 487 cases of anthrax have been reported, raising alarms about unreported outbreaks.

Acting deputy director of the Department of Veterinary Services, Dr. Reverend Spargo expressed concern that some farmers may be concealing cases.

“The fact that confiscated meat tested positive for anthrax is a stark warning. Eating meat from sick animals can be deadly, and with over 70 percent of emerging human diseases originating from animals, vigilance is crucial,” he said.

Dr. Spargo warns against purchasing uninspected meat.

“Not reporting suspected anthrax cases and selling uninspected meat are both offences. Stay safe by buying meat only from registered abattoirs and butcheries. Avoid risky purchases from informal vendors,” he cautioned.

Anthrax, a soil-borne disease, poses heightened risks during the rainy season. Animals grazing on fresh grass or tilled land after the first rains are particularly vulnerable to spores, making this a critical period for disease prevention.

To combat the outbreaks, the Department of Veterinary Services, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Child Care, has intensified public awareness campaigns.

 These efforts aim to educate farmers and the public about the dangers of anthrax, safe meat-handling practices, and the importance of vaccination.

By addressing the root causes of the outbreaks and promoting preventive measures, authorities hope to protect both livestock and communities from the devastating effects of this deadly disease.