• The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development has confirmed an outbreak of anthrax in Zamfara State
• Anthrax is a zoonotic disease that can affect animals and humans, causing fever, coughing, vomiting, and other symptoms
• The ministry advises livestock farmers to take preventive measures, such as risk assessment, surveys, and ring vaccination
• The public is urged to remain vigilant, report unusual illnesses, and adhere to preventive guidelines

The Federal Ministry of Livestock Development has issued a warning to Nigerians about a confirmed outbreak of anthrax in Zamfara State. According to the ministry, anthrax is a zoonotic disease caused by the bacterium bacillus anthracis, which can affect various warm-blooded animals and humans ¹.

Symptoms of Anthrax

• Fever
• Coughing
• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Sore throat
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Headaches
• Itching
• Bleeding from major openings

The ministry has advised livestock farmers to take preventive measures to mitigate the risks associated with the disease. These measures include:

• Risk Assessment: Identifying high-risk areas and susceptible animals
• Surveys: Conducting regular surveys to detect early signs of the disease
• Ring Vaccination: Vaccinating animals in high-risk areas to prevent the spread of the disease

The public is urged to remain vigilant, report any unusual illnesses in animals or humans, and adhere to all preventive guidelines issued by relevant authorities.