The federal government has issued an alert over the outbreak
of anthrax disease in some neighbouring countries, and the consumption of hides
(ponmo).
In a statement on Monday, Ernest Umakhihe, permanent
secretary, ministry of agriculture, said the disease has claimed some lives in
northern Ghana–bordering Burkina Faso and Togo.
Anthrax is an infection caused by the spore-forming
bacteria, Bacillus anthracis. It typically affects ruminants such as cows,
sheep, and goats.
It is a zoonosis which means it is transmissible from
contaminated animals to humans.
Humans can get infected if they handle or are involved in
the slaughter of a sick animal, or are in contact with contaminated animal
products.
Anthrax is, however, not spread from person to person by casual
contact.
Symptoms of the disease include cough, fever, muscle aches
and if not diagnosed and treated early, pneumonia, severe lung problems, shock
and death.
Umakhihe said non-vaccinated animals with anthrax can easily
transmit it to man through the inhalation of anthrax spores or consumption of
contaminated animal products.
He said there is therefore a need to intensify animal
vaccinations along border states of Sokoto, Kebbi, Niger, Kwara, Oyo, Ogun and
Lagos because of their proximity to Burkina Faso, Togo and Ghana.
“Other states of Nigeria are equally advised to join in the
exercise,” the statement reads.
“Infected dead animals should be buried deep into the soil
along with equipment used in the burial after applying chemicals that will kill
the anthrax spores.
“The general public
is strongly advised to desist from the consumption of hides (ponmo), smoked
meat and bush meat as they pose serious risk; until the situation is brought
under control.
“Meanwhile, the public is urged to remain calm and vigilant
as the federal government has resuscitated a standing committee on the control
of anthrax in the ministry of agriculture and rural development.
“Furthermore, relevant institutions and collaborators have
been contacted with the aim of controlling the outbreak. This is in addition to
the sensitisation of state directors of veterinary services nationwide.”
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