In a recent development, the Lagos State Government has taken swift action to contain the spread of Anthrax disease by confiscating, burning, and burying six infected animals. The announcement was made in a press statement by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Mrs. Olutokunbo Emokpae, on Sunday. The infected animals were detected during surveillance operations carried out on Lagos Island and Agege.
Fortunately, no cases of human infection have been reported since the discovery of Anthrax disease in Lagos. Nevertheless, the government is taking extra precautions to safeguard public health. Human and animal surveillance efforts have been intensified, and free vaccination programs are underway to protect domesticated animals from the disease.
Mrs. Emokpae urged animal owners to participate in the vaccination exercise and bring their herds forward for inoculation. The state government is requesting the cooperation of animal owners to allow Veterinary Personnel to administer the necessary vaccinations to their animals.
Anthrax is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis, affecting various domesticated and wild animals, including cows, pigs, camels, sheep, goats, and others. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development officially confirmed the Anthrax outbreak on July 18, as stated by the Chief Veterinary Officer of Nigeria, Columba Vakuru.
According to Mr. Vakuru, the suspected case of Anthrax was reported on July 14 at a multi-specie animal farm in Suleja, Niger State. The farm housed cattle, sheep, and goats, and some of the animals exhibited symptoms like oozing blood from their body openings, such as the anus, nose, eyes, and ears.
In light of this situation, it is crucial for the public to exercise caution and follow preventive measures. As the saying goes, “Prevention is better than cure,” taking precautionary steps can help protect ourselves and our animals from potential health risks. Therefore, it is essential to avoid approaching or touching animals suspected of contracting the disease and to cooperate with veterinary authorities during the vaccination campaigns to ensure the safety and well-being of both humans and animals alike.
