Outbreak of anthrax among humans and cattle in Western province of Zambia, November 2016 to January 2017

Abstract

An outbreak of anthrax occurred in Western province on 11th November 2016. The outbreak was confirmed using PCR. Out of the 7 specimens examined for Bacillus anthracis, 3 were positive. Altogether 67 suspected cases were investigated out of which one death (1.5%) was reported. Over half of the cases were of age 15 years or older (56.1%) and males (56.7%). Four peaks were identified on the epidemiologic curve suggesting multiple sources of infection. Factors associated with the outbreak included: animal movement, belief that all the dead animals have to be eaten ‘there is no grave for animals’ and animals on loan (mafisa) cannot be disposed of without owners’ approval, hunger land low levels of animal vaccination coverage. In conclusion, disposal of carcasses should be done by burning and burying followed by decontamination. Certificates should be issued to show that disposal was conducted by government. Anthrax vaccines should be given to farmers free of charge through Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries