By Amos Ssemuwemba
The deadly anthrax outbreak in Kanungu District has claimed its fourth victim, a 52-year-old woman from Karukondo village, Nyamirama sub-county, who succumbed earlier this week after testing positive for the disease. This latest fatality intensifies growing concerns as health authorities warn of increasing infections and the spread of the zoonotic disease.
Gad Rugaaju Ahimbisibwe, the Deputy Resident District Commissioner of Kanungu, confirmed the incident, stating that the woman had presented with symptoms of anthrax at Nyamirama Health Centre III, where tests confirmed the diagnosis. “Her unfortunate death adds to the rising toll, and we continue to closely monitor other cases,” he said.
The number of anthrax patients in the district has also risen, with 44 cases now confirmed after another man was admitted at Kihihi Health Centre IV. Kanungu’s livestock has also been severely affected, with over 100 animals, including cows, goats, and pigs, dying from the disease.
The persistence of the outbreak has been exacerbated by residents’ refusal to heed public health warnings. Ambrose Mwesigye Amanyire, the Resident District Commissioner, expressed frustration over the community’s continued slaughter of animals despite a quarantine. “People are still slaughtering infected animals and consuming their meat, which is causing anthrax to spread further,” he warned. “We need the community to take this seriously and alert their neighbors and relatives to the dangers.”
In a bid to enforce the quarantine, police have arrested a butcher from Mukyepatuko trading center, Katete sub-county, for violating restrictions. The District Police Commander, Kitosi Titus, confirmed the arrest, adding that law enforcement will continue to crack down on those endangering public health by disregarding the quarantine.
National Response and Health Experts on Ground
In response to the escalating situation, Dr. Birungi Mutahunga, the Kanungu District Health Officer, announced that a team of epidemiologists from the Ministry of Health has arrived to assess and contain the outbreak. “We are working closely with the national team to ensure swift intervention and prevent further loss of life,” he said.
Anthrax, a highly infectious disease caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis, is primarily spread through contact with infected animals or contaminated products. Infected animals, particularly ruminants like cows, sheep, and goats, can die rapidly with little warning. In humans, the disease begins with flu-like symptoms and can progress to severe complications if not treated promptly.
With anthrax now spreading to new areas within the district, health authorities are intensifying efforts to educate the public on the dangers of consuming or handling infected animals. Residents are being urged to report any cases of sudden animal deaths or individuals exhibiting symptoms of the disease.
This anthrax outbreak is a stark reminder of the critical need for compliance with health measures to protect both human and animal populations.
