Derick Tsimba

Hwange National Park has been hit by an Anthrax outbreak which has affected Matetsi Unit 7 and 9 causing the death of wildlife, Harare Post has learnt.

So far the wildlife which has died includes 8 elephants and 3 buffalos among other animals which have succumbed to the disease.

The anthrax outbreak was confirmed after tests by Hwange District Veterinary Department.

Hwange District Veterinary Services Head, Dr Lovemore Dube said carcasses tested positive to the disease.

“The carcasses tested positive for anthrax, efforts to contain the disease are being made through burning the carcasses and sensitising communities. We are also ensuring that people avoid hunting wildlife,” said Dr Dube.

Zimbabwe has a history of containing anthrax outbreaks when they occur. Recently in 2018, an anthrax outbreak was contained when it occurred at Mana Pools.

The Veterinary Department and Zimbabwe Wild Life Authority has the capacity to prevent the spread of the disease to other species through implementing quarantine measures.

Anthrax is a type of bacterial pathogen that affects livestock and wild animals. It affects domesticated animals like cattle, goats and sheep. In the case of an Anthrax suspected infection, it is wise to quickly report to the Veterinary Department since the disease can spread rapidly causing a devastating loss of livestock.