Zambia anthrax outbreak kills dozens of wildlife and infects 12 people

An anthrax outbreak in northern Zambia has caused the deaths of dozens of wild animals and infected 12 people. Authorities reported that 46 hippopotamuses, 8 elephants, 5 buffaloes, and 1 crocodile died in the Munyamadzi River area within the Muchinga Province.

Norman Chipakupaku, national coordinator of the Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit, stated that local communities have been consuming carcasses of animals that died suddenly or from unknown causes, which is a primary food source for some. In response, the government has deployed a multi-sectoral team to the Munyamadzi Wildlife Reserve to contain the spread.

Authorities have issued urgent warnings to the public to avoid consuming, selling, distributing, or handling meat from animals that died naturally or under unexplained circumstances. Hunting in the affected area has been temporarily suspended, and wildlife police are being deployed to prevent the movement and consumption of carcasses. Investigations are ongoing to determine the full extent of the outbreak.