The veterinary services within the Limpopo Department of Agriculture (LDA) report that Anthrax was diagnosed in wildlife in the Maruleng Municipality under Mopani District Municipality. This is an acute disease caused by a bacterium, Bacillus anthracis. It affects all terrestrial (land) animals and is mostly lethal. The organism forms spores which can be taken in by inhalation, ingestion or through the skin. Ingestion is the most common route of infection.
It can also spread to humans by direct contact with infected material when handling carcasses. Anthrax should always be suspected where an animal dies suddenly showing dark, non–clotting blood from its natural openings.
Most bacteria inside the body of a dead animal are destroyed upon the death of the animal, but will sporulate and form spores which are hard to destroy if the animal is opened up and the bacteria are exposed to the air. Dead animals should thus not be cut open. For any suspicious cases, call a local veterinarian or any veterinary official who will then handle the case appropriately.
Livestock should be vaccinated on a regular basis and meat from dead animals should not be consumed. Game species should also be considered for vaccination. Livestock in communal areas is being vaccinated for free by veterinary officials. Commercial farmers should vaccinate at own expense, and should also contact the local veterinary offices if they experience challenges.
The LDA is optimistic that with the cooperation of all stakeholders, the community and farmers, this disease should be brought under control.
For more information contact:
Kenny Mathivha
Cell: 082 450 1331
Tel: 015 2943190
