Ntungamo Health Workers Urged to Stay Vigilant after suspected outbreak of anthrax

By Anthony Kushaba

Health officials in Ntungamo District have been urged to be vigilant after a suspected outbreak of anthrax in the sub-counties of Nyabushenyi and Nyabihoko, raising concerns about public health and safety.

Speaking during a meeting for health facility in-charges held at the district council hall, key district leaders emphasized the need for heightened vigilance and collective action to combat the threat.

Dr. Yake Basulira, the Ntungamo District Veterinary Officer, revealed that there is a suspected outbreak and warned residents against consuming meat from animals that have died under unclear circumstances. He stressed that no animals should be slaughtered without veterinary inspection to prevent the spread of the deadly disease.

“The fight against anthrax requires everyone’s cooperation. Avoid eating uninspected meat, slaughtering should not be on the ground, slaughtering should be from gazetted slaughter facilities and report any suspicious animal deaths immediately,” Dr. Basulira further advised.

Beatrice Chemisto, the acting District Health Officer, called on health workers to remain on high alert, particularly during the festive season, when emergency cases tend to rise. Chemisto noted that the outbreak of anthrax, along with other diseases such as Mpox in neighboring districts, necessitates proactive measures.

“This meeting aims to prepare health facility in-charges to effectively handle emergencies and safeguard our communities,” Chemisto said.

Ntungamo Deputy Chief Administrative Officer Fidelis Kiiza also used the platform to advocate for staff motivation as a strategy to enhance service delivery. He urged health facility managers to support their teams through career growth and addressing their professional needs.

“Motivated workers deliver better services with passion. Let us ensure our health staff are well-supported to meet the growing demands in the district,” Kiiza emphasized.

Health officials have appealed to the public to report any unusual animal or human health incidents to authorities promptly and to adhere to all public health guidelines to curb the spread of anthrax in addition to desist from the belief that anthrax is a result of witchcraft.

Ntungamo resident district commissioner Isaiah Kanyamahane commended health workers for always being on alert to ensure that public health is prioritized and challenged them to ensure that the festive season is peaceful and locals get services on time.

Kanyamahane revealed that the district leadership has now moved in withcommunity awareness campaigns to ensure a swift and effective response to the suspected  outbreak.