MAAIF Activates Emergency Response Measures to Isolated Suspected Anthrax Outbreak in Rwambu Parish of Ibanda District
October 20, 2025 – Entebbe: The Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) informs the public of a suspected outbreak of anthrax at a farm in Birongo 1, Rwambu Parish, Kijongo Sub-county, Ibanda District. Seven cattle have died, and four individuals who came into contact with of one of the dead animals have developed skin lesions consistent with cutaneous anthrax. These individuals are currently under medical care. Anthrax is a very dangerous zoonotic disease caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis, which forms spores capable of surviving in the environment for over a century. Transmission occurs through ingestion, inhalation, or contact through the skin of infected animals or contaminated materials. Immediate measures undertaken by MAAIF:
• The Ministry has conducted joint veterinary and public health investigations, with samples submitted for laboratory confirmation.
• Emergency vaccination has been undertaken at the affected farm, and ring vaccination is ongoing in surrounding areas.
• The supervised disposal of the carcasses of dead animals, as well as environmental decontamination are in effect to prevent the spread of the spore.
• Community sensitization on anthrax identification, prevention, and reporting is underway.
• Quarantine restrictions have been imposed in Kijongo Sub- County to contain the outbreak.
Public Advisory
The Ministry of Agriculture Animal Industry and Fisheries urges farmers and the general public to:
• Report sudden animal deaths to your respective District Veterinary Officers. • Cooperate with vaccination and movement control teams.
• Avoid handling or consuming meat from dead or visibly sick animals.
• Seek medical attention if exposed to dead animals and develop skin sores or fever.
• Purchase meat only from certified slaughter facilities under veterinary supervision.
• Refrain from carelessly opening carcasses to prevent environmental contamination.
• Avoid spreading unverified information; rely on official updates from MAAIF and local authorities.
Maj. Gen. David Kasura-Kyomukama PERMANENT SECRETARY —————————————————————-
EDITOR’S NOTES
About Anthrax
Anthrax is a zoonotic disease affecting both animals and humans. It does not spread from person to person but can be contracted through contact with infected carcasses, consumption of contaminated meat, or inhalation of spores from animal by-products.
• Forms of Anthrax: o Cutaneous: Skin contact during slaughter or handling. o Gastrointestinal: Ingestion of contaminated meat. o Respiratory: Inhalation of spores, especially in leather/wool industries.
• Prevention: Annual livestock vaccination, safe carcass disposal, and public awareness are key to controlling outbreaks.
• MAAIF’s Role: The Ministry leads national animal health surveillance and emergency response, working closely with the Ministry of Health and district authorities.
For media inquiries, please contact: Public Relations Manager, MAAIF (+256757779992), as well as Commissioner, Animal Production and Health (+256772504746)