Warrap records 7 more anthrax cases

The Ministry of health in Warrap State has detected seven more cases of anthrax infection in humans within the last 14 days, a health official says.

The first incidence of the disease was first recorded at the Kuajok Teaching Hospital in 2021.

Since then, it has been spreading, with a total of 300 people infected, nine of whom have succumbed to the disease.

Health officials blame the spread on eating of dead animal meat in the area.

John Akol, surveillance officer at the Ministry of Health in Warrap State, says the cases of anthrax are common among women and young children.

“The disease is spreading. Last week and this week, we have registered 7 cases of anthrax infection at the hospital,” Akol told Mayardit FM.

According to scientists, anthrax is a serious infectious disease caused by gram-positive, rod-shaped bacteria known as Bacillus anthracis.

It occurs naturally in soil and commonly affects domestic and wild animals around the world. People can get sick with anthrax if they come in contact with infected animals or contaminated animal products.

Akol went on to advise the public to consult veterinary doctors to examine an animal before they consume it.