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Kanungu, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | Anthrax disease has claimed the life of a fourth person in Kanungu district.
Gad Rugaaju Ahimbisibwe Rugaju, Kanungu Deputy Resident District Commissioner says that a 52-year-old woman from Karukondo village in Nyakashure parish, Nyamirama sub county early this week reported to Nyamirama HCIII with signs related to the disease. She was diagnosed and tested positive for the disease.
Rugaaju also says that patients who have tested positive for Anthrax have increased from 43 to 44 after another man was admitted at Kihihi Health Centre IV. He also says that more than 100 animals have died of the disease in the district.
Ambrose Mwesigye Amanyire, the Kanungu Resident District Commissioner accused residents of continuing to slaughter animals as well as consuming the products. “We are still seeing people slaughtering cows, pigs, and goats, and as a result, the cases of anthrax are increasing and spreading to new areas. it is everyone’s responsibility to inform and sensitize their neighbours, friends, and relatives about the dangers of anthrax”, says Amanyire.
Kitosi Titus, Kanungu District Police Commander says that one butcher from Mukyepatuko trading centre in Katete sub-county has been arrested for violating the quarantine.
Dr. Birungi Mutahunga, Kanungu District Health Officer says that epidemiologists from the Ministry of Health are already in the district to assess the situation.
Anthrax is a zoonotic disease caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis, which produces potent toxins harmful to both animals and humans. Ruminants like cows, goats, and sheep may die rapidly with minimal signs of infection, while humans initially experience flu-like symptoms and raised boil-like skin lesions.
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