Anthrax outbreak in Kyotera District claims 17 lives, including Ssenyonjo

Accident – Death – Obituary News : Anthrax Outbreak Confirmed in Kyotera District, Uganda

The Ministry of Health has officially confirmed an outbreak of anthrax in Kabira Sub-county, Kyotera District. The residents of the area had been referring to the mysterious illness as a “strange disease” for the past month. Dr Edward Muwanga, the Kyotera District Health Officer (DHO), revealed that blood samples collected from three victims in Kyamayembe Village on November 23 tested positive for anthrax at the Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI) in Entebbe.

Anthrax is caused by a bacterium known as Bacillus anthracis. The disease is usually acquired by humans either directly or indirectly from infected animals or through occupational exposure to affected or contaminated animal products.

Dr Muwanga has urged all residents to avoid consuming meat from dead animals and to ensure that any meat they do eat is thoroughly cooked. This precautionary measure is essential in preventing the further spread of the disease. Unfortunately, three more people have already succumbed to the deadly disease, bringing the total number of fatalities to 17. The patients currently being treated for anthrax in the area number 28.

Yesterday, a team from the World Health Organisation (WHO) along with district officials visited Kyamayembe Village to provide guidance to residents on how to prevent contracting anthrax. Dr Chris Opsen, an anthropologist from WHO, emphasized that anthrax is not linked to witchcraft, as some residents have wrongly alleged. Instead, it is a bacterial infection that requires medical attention. Dr Opsen advised residents to report any detected cases within the community to healthcare professionals for prompt treatment.

Mr Emax Kintu, the Kyotera District health educator, stressed the importance of early diagnosis in ensuring successful treatment outcomes. While anthrax is curable, seeking medical services at the onset of signs and symptoms is crucial. Prevention measures include avoiding contact with diseased or dead animals, both domestic and wild. Proper disposal of carcasses, hides, and skins is also vital in preventing the spread of the disease.

It is worth noting that this is not the first time Kyotera District has faced a health crisis. In July of last year, the district was hit by a mysterious disease that claimed the lives of 13 residents in Kijonjo Parish, Kasasa Sub-county. The Ministry of Health later identified the illness as cellulitis, locally known as ettalo. Victims experienced symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, headache, and bleeding before succumbing to the disease. Many people in the central region believe that cellulitis can only be treated by traditional healers using herbs. However, doctors maintain that cellulitis is treatable in hospitals.

In September, another incident occurred in the district when one person died and over 20 others were admitted to various health facilities after consuming suspected contaminated meat. These incidents highlight the importance of maintaining proper hygiene practices and seeking medical attention promptly in order to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.

As the authorities continue to monitor and respond to the anthrax outbreak in Kyotera District, it is crucial for residents to remain vigilant and follow the guidelines provided by healthcare professionals. By working together and adhering to preventive measures, the community can help control the spread of anthrax and protect their health..