By Joshua Kato
-Most outbreaks occur in areas where animals have previously died of anthrax, as the spores remain alive for decades. For instance, there was an outbreak of anthrax around Queen Elizabeth National Park, which killed some hippos and around Lake Mburo.
-Anthrax can be spread by vultures hyenas, dogs, scavengers, farm tools and people, who come into contact with the sick animal.
-Adverse weather conditions such as floods, which wash the spores from high to low lands and drought, which leaves the ground bare and enables the spores to come up.
-Anthrax can be transmitted to humans through contact with infected animals or their products.
Signs and symptoms
-Animals stop eating.
-There is quick progression from normal health condition to death in a matter of hours.
-Most animals are simply found dead.
-Animals become weak, they develop fever and there is first excitement, followed by depression, difficulty in breathing, uncoordinated movements and convulsions.
-There is bloody discharges from the natural body openings. Oedema is present in different parts of the body.
-After death, the animal’s body rapidly decomposes.
Signs and symptoms of anthrax in humans
-Development of dark-coloured, painless sores within three to 10 days after exposure.
-Abdominal pain, severe breathing difficulties, shock, fever and flu.
