LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Malawi’s Ministry of Health has intensified surveillance in health facilities and entry points to detect any suspected cases of Anthrax disease that has already claimed lives in neighboring Zambia.
The disease has killed four people in Zambia and infected 335 others in six of its ten provinces after reportedly contracting it through anthrax-contaminated meat.
Secretary for Health in Malawi, Dr. Samson Mndolo reveals they continue collaborating with the Zambian government, Africa CDC, and World Health Organisation in monitoring the Anthrax outbreak.
He says they are ready to respond in the event of a suspected case through laboratory confirmation and case management.
Some of the symptoms of Anthrax including blisters, painless skin sores, fever general body pains, and headache.
Information shows it can be prevented by avoiding eating raw and undercooked meat from sick or dead animals, wearing masks, gloves, and other protective clothing when handling sick or dead animals as well as washing hands with soap and clean water after having contact with animals or animal products.
Anthrax is a zoonotic disease spread by the bacteria Bacillus anthracis that infects animals and humans and is transmitted from infected livestock like cattle, goats, pigs, and others.
