Emergence of anthrax in Bududa District, Eastern Uganda, February - May 2022: implications for prevention and control

• DOI: 10.11604/pamj-oh.2024.14.15.42280
• Publication Date: 2024-07-26T12:55:59Z
• Authors: Zainah Kabami; Brian Agaba; Helen Nelly Naiga; Brenda Nakafeero ...; Robert Zavuga; Saudah Namubiru K...; Joshua Kayiwa; Issa Makumbi; Fred Monje; Richard Migisha; Daniel Kadobera; Lilian Bulage; Alex Riolexus Ario
• Keywords: Christian ministry

On 20 May, 2022, the Uganda Virus Research Institute confirmed first reported anthrax outbreak in Bududa District following reports of sudden cattle deaths and suspected human cases four adjacent villages. The Ministry Health through Public Fellowship Program immediately deployed a multi-disciplinary team led by an Epidemiologist, to determine scope, identify risk factors, recommend control measures. investigation included active case finding using standardized definition, medical records review, retrospective cohort study, laboratory investigations. Laboratory tests Bacillus anthracis both animal samples environmental soil samples. A total 21 case-patients (15 suspected, 6 confirmed) were identified, 17 among livestock (13 4 confirmed), 2 positive that was predominantly cutaneous form, linked handling consumption meat from infected animals. We recommended prophylactic measures for exposed individuals, enhanced surveillance, vaccination livestock, further epidemiological studies populations. Vaccination conducted, health education community sensitization, findings presented national district authorities. As result, government imposed ban on sale movement neighboring districts bid contain outbreak.