Recently, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has reported a significant anthrax outbreak in Zambia, marking an alarming spread of the disease across nine out of the country's ten provinces.
About Anthrax:
It is a highly infectious disease that is caused by the gram-positive, rod-shaped bacteria known as Bacillus anthracis.
It affects animals like cows, sheep, and goats, as well as wild herbivores.
Even humans can get sick if they come in contact with infected animals or contaminated animal products.
Anthrax bacteria also occur naturally in soil.
Symptoms of anthrax
The disease manifests in three forms depending on the route of infection: cutaneous, gastrointestinal, and inhalational.
Cutaneous anthrax, the most common form, presents with itchy bumps that develop into black sores, often accompanied by fever and muscle aches.
How is anthrax diagnosed?
It can be diagnosed by identifying Bacillus anthracis in blood, skin lesions, or respiratory secretions through laboratory culture, PCR, or ELISA tests.
While there is no specific test to determine exposure to anthrax, public health investigations play a crucial role in identifying potential cases.
Treatment: It is available and includes antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin, doxycycline, or levofloxacin.
Vaccines are also available for both livestock and humans.
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