The federal government of Nigeria has warned its citizens to stop consuming hides (ponmo), smoked meat, and bush meat, due to the outbreak of Anthrax in some neighbouring countries.
The warning was contained in a statement by the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ernest Umakhihe, noting that it was necessary to alert Nigerians on the outbreak of the disease which is currently ravaging Northern Ghana bordering Burkina Faso and Togo.
He explained that Anthrax is a disease that can be transferred from infected animals to humans, as its spores are naturally found in the soil and commonly affect domestic and wild animals.
Umakhihe added that people can get infected with Anthrax spores if they come in contact with infected animals or contaminated animal products.
Some of the symptoms of the disease according to the statement are flu-like symptoms such as cough, fever, muscle aches and if not diagnosed and treated early, lead to pneumonia, severe lung problems, difficulty in breathing, shock and death.
He said, “The disease, which has claimed some lives, is a bacterial disease that affects both animals and man, that is a zoonotic disease. Anthrax spores are naturally found in the soil and commonly affect domestic and wild Animals.
“People can get infected with Anthrax spores if they come in contact with infected animals or contaminated animal products. However, Anthrax is not a contagious disease and so, one cannot get it by coming in close contact with an infected person.
“The general public is strongly advised to desist from the consumption of hides (pomo), smoked meat and bush meat as they pose serious risks until the situation is brought under control.
“Meanwhile, the public is urged to remain calm and vigilant as the Federal Government has resuscitated a Standing Committee on the Control of Anthrax in the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development.
“We called on border States of Sokoto, Kebbi, Niger, Kwara, Oyo, Ogun and Lagos to intensify vaccination of animals, because of their proximity to Burkina Faso, Togo and Ghana.” The statement added.
