Uganda: Anthrax Outbreak - Nov 2023

Anthrax outbreak was confirmed on 29th November 2023 in Kabira, Kasasa and Lwankoni sub-counties in Kyotera district. According to the district surveillance team, Kyotera district anthrax possibly started in June 2023 on a farm in Kkyamayembe Sub-County following the consumption of meat of a dead cow. The victims presented with various signs including itchy rash, swelling and skin lesions. In early July, the first human death was reported and 24 animal deaths by October 31,2023. The consumption of meat of the dead animals continued and 3 humans developed signs of the disease. (IFRC, 15 Dec 2023)

Human anthrax outbreak which started in 2023 is still ongoing in Uganda. Amudat district reported 2 suspected anthrax cases from Karita HC IV in epi week 10 and other 2 in epi week 9. The district rapid response team has been notified to investigate the event. There were zero new cases in the 8 remaining affected districts (except in Amudat) and zero deaths in all the 9 affected districts of Abim, Amudat, Kaabong, Karenga, Kotido, Moroto, Nabilatuk, Nakapiripiri, Napak. WHO, 24 Mar 2023)