The Ekiti State Government has alerted residents of the state to anthrax disease and advised on the need to take preventive measures against it to curtail its spread.
The warning came in the wake of the Monday announcement by the Federal Government that a case of anthrax was confirmed in Niger State.
Ekiti State Commissioner for Health, Dr Oyebanji Filani, said, “Anthrax is a serious disease that affects both animals and humans.”
In a statement on Wednesday, jointly signed by Filani and and the Special Adviser, Agriculture and Food Security, Ebenezer Boluwade, the state urged the general public, farmers, butchers and stakeholders in the agricultural sector to adhere strictly to the preventive measures to safeguard public health and prevent the further spread of the disease.
“Anthrax presents flu-like symptoms, such as cough, painless sores with a black centre appearing after the blister, fever, and muscle aches, and if not diagnosed and treated promptly, it can lead to severe complications, including pneumonia, respiratory problems, shock and even death.
“It is primarily a disease of animals; however, due to the close proximity between humans and animals, it can easily be transmitted to humans through inhalation of anthrax spores or consumption of contaminated or infected animal products such as hides and skins, meat, and milk,” the statement read partly.
It added that early reporting and prompt action were crucial to containing the spread of the disease and advised the public to not slaughter or consume sick animals.
“The general public is strongly advised to abstain from the consumption of hides (ponmo), smoked meat and bush meat as they pose a serious risk until the situation is brought under control. It is crucial to prioritise public health and safety during this time.”
