Two people die of suspected anthrax in Luampa

Two children have been reported dead due to suspected outbreak of anthrax in Luampa District.

Francis Kabangu and Miyombo Miyombo of Mungomba Village in Nyambi Two died after consumption of meat suspected to have been contaminated with anthrax.

According to a report issued to ZANIS by Kaoma Senior Environmental Health Officer, Akatama Inambao, a total of 18 cases of anthrax have been reported in affected villages since December 29, 2013.

Mr Inambao disclosed that the villages affected include Sampulu, Mulyata, Mung’omba, Sasomili, Muzanga, Kalevu, Kapote and Fulumana.

He said the team comprising of veterinary and health workers has started sensitising the community in order to reduce the spread and further occurrence of cases.

Mr Inambao added that the team is facing challenges from community members who are not ready to surrender leftover meat suspected to be contaminated with anthrax for disposal.

He has called on Rural Health Centres to continue detecting and managing all cases and report all suspected cases to the District Health Office in time.

And Luampa District Veterinary Assistant, Brian Lutango, said a team from the Department of Livestock has embarked on a vaccination exercise in affected areas.

A total number of four cattle, two goats, five pigs and four dogs were reported dead during the reporting period.

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