Anthrax outbreak confirmed in Siyancuma district

THE KIMBERLEY State Veterinarian’s Office has warned farmers and residents in the Ghaap Plateau area of the Siyancuma district of a confirmed outbreak of anthrax.

The state veterinarian at the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development in the Northern Cape, Dr McDonald Gayakaya, said on October 24 that cases of anthrax had been detected in eland and kudu in the region.

“Anthrax also affects sheep, cattle, goats, horses, donkeys, pigs, ostriches, and wild game. It is caused by spore-forming bacteria and may result in the sudden death of affected animals. Sometimes the dead animals have blood oozing from the nose, mouth, and anus. Farmers and individuals are advised not to slaughter such animals.

“The bacteria has the capacity to form spores that are resistant to many disinfectants once a carcass is opened, and these spores are capable of surviving in the environment for several years.”

Gayakaya advised that carcasses should be buried in a hole at least 1.8 metres deep and covered with lime to discourage scavengers.

“We are aware of the challenges of burying carcasses in the hard soil of the Ghaap Plateau, which makes digging difficult. Burning carcasses poses a great risk of runaway veld fires. Farmers are encouraged to vaccinate their animals against anthrax. Vaccines are available at the Douglas and Kimberley co-operatives.

“The Animal Diseases Regulations require that all cattle be vaccinated against anthrax once every 12 months. Any anthrax-related deaths should be reported to a local private or state veterinarian,” Gayakaya said.

He added that anthrax can also infect humans, with symptoms including flu-like illness, fever, fatigue, or skin sores, which can lead to death if untreated.

“People handling carcasses must wear protective clothing. Anyone displaying such symptoms should report to the nearest health facility,” he advised.