THE Lagos State Government has announced that six animals infected with the deadly Anthrax disease have been confiscated, burnt, and buried to prevent its spread.
According to media reports, Mrs Olatokunbo Emokpae, the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture, in a statement on Sunday, July 30, 2023, said the cases were discovered during surveillance of animals on Lagos Island and Agege, adding that no human infection has been recorded.
In her words: “No case of human infection has either been identified or reported since the discovery of Anthrax disease in Lagos. Human and animal surveillance activities have been stepped up.
“Free vaccination activities and monitoring have also been intensified. Animal owners should take advantage of the exercise by coming forward with their herd for inoculation.
“Please report cases of symptoms in animals to the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture Director of Veterinary Services via telephone on 08023427594, 08180703010 or contact the Veterinary Epidemiologist on 08023328244.”
Note that Anthrax is caused by a spore-forming bacterium. It mainly affects animals. Humans can become infected through contact with an infected animal or by inhaling spores.
