Livestock farmers in Kyotera district are expressing worry over the inadequate disposal of anthrax-infected carcasses, further exacerbating the ongoing outbreak that has gripped the region for nearly two months. The rare anthrax outbreak prompted authorities to implement a total livestock quarantine, but farmers in Kabira and Kakuuto sub-counties fear that the disease might persist due to improper carcass disposal practices.
In areas still under quarantine, such as Bukaala parish in Kabira sub-county, Enos Mugisha, a cattle keeper, points out that carcasses are being buried in grazing fields, exposing herds to the risk of contracting the virus. Fatigue among farmers, resulting from the loss of many animals, has led to shallow burial pits, making it easier for dogs and other wandering animals to exhume the carcasses and scatter infected meat in the community.
Richard Kalanzi, the Chairperson of Kabira Sub-county, expresses concern about a potential second wave of the disease spilling over into human beings due to growing complacency in the community. He notes that the lack of personal protective gear leaves people vulnerable, as they handle carcasses with bare hands, increasing the risk of infection.
In the past six weeks, Kyotera district has witnessed 17 human deaths and numerous hospitalizations related to anthrax. The victims had either been in contact with infected animals, touched their products, or consumed their meat. The district is grappling with the challenges of containing the outbreak and ensuring proper handling of infected animals to prevent further infections.
To address the situation, the Uganda Red Cross Society has deployed a surveillance team for community sensitization. Dr. Steven Kasumba, the Veterinary Officer at the Red Cross Society, collaborates with local public health and veterinary officers to support ongoing surveillance and response interventions.
During a community meeting at Bukaala village, Dr. Kasumba emphasizes the importance of proper disposal, urging residents to refrain from carrying carcasses and instead ensure they are buried or completely burned at the point of death. John Lutaaya, the Kyotera District Veterinary Officer, assures residents that they are closely monitoring the situation while awaiting the promised mass livestock vaccination exercise by the government, which is expected to provide a lasting solution to the anthrax problem.
