The Upper East Regional Health Directorate has reported two suspected cases of anthrax in the Binduri district. The cases were reported on June 1, 2023, according to a release signed by the Upper East Regional Director of Health Services, Dr. Emmanuel Kofi Dzotsi.
“On June 1, 2023, the Regional Health Directorate received notification of two (2) suspected cases of anthrax with one death in Binduri District following the consumption of dead cattle. In all, four cattle have died in the affected community. So far eleven (11) suspected cases have been identified and contact tracing efforts are underway in the affected community,” portions of the statement read.
The Health Service has thus asked “all districts, particularly those sharing borders with Binduri are by this circular required to be on high alert and prioritise the following activities for implementation: Surveillance activities for anthrax should be intensified, the attached case definitions should be used to detect cases in health facilities and in communities, the attached case definitions for anthrax should be printed out and shared with all facilities, samples (Blood, skin lesions or sputum depending on the presentation) should be taken from all suspected cases for testing at the NPHRL, suspected cases should be managed using Ciprofloxacin and Doxycycline, risk communication efforts should be intensified in all communities, community members should be engaged to desist eating dead cattle of unknown cause, and appropriate linkages should be established with Veterinary Service in each district for a holistic control of the disease Counting on your cooperation.”
Anthrax is a infectious disease caused by the spore-forming bacterium Bacillus anthracis. This disease primarily affects animals, particularly cattle, sheep, and goats, but can also be transmitted to humans through contact with infected animals or contaminated animal products. While anthrax is relatively rare in humans, its potential for severe illness and the potential use of anthrax as a bioweapon has led to heightened vigilance and precautionary measures.
Anthrax infections can manifest in three different forms: cutaneous (skin), gastrointestinal, and inhalation. The cutaneous form is the most common and typically occurs when the spores enter a break in the skin, resulting in a localised infection that can progress to more severe symptoms if left untreated. Gastrointestinal anthrax is caused by consuming contaminated meat, leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and bloody diarrhoea. Inhalation anthrax, although rare, is the most severe form and results from inhaling anthrax spores. This form can cause severe respiratory distress, fever, and shock. Prompt medical intervention and appropriate antibiotic treatment are crucial in managing anthrax infections. As a precautionary measure, individuals working in high-risk occupations or living in areas with known anthrax cases are advised to take necessary precautions, such as using personal protective equipment and following good hygiene practices, to prevent infection.
Source: A1radioonline.com|101.1MHz|Mark Kwasi Ahumah Smith|Ghana
