At least 12 people are being treated for anthrax in Zambia after consuming meat from dead wildlife. Authorities have urged the public not to eat meat from animals that die naturally or from unknown causes.
Authorities in Zambia have suspended hunting in the affected area until the full extent of the anthrax outbreak is determined. Surveillance and laboratory investigations are ongoing to assess the geographical spread of the disease. People have been warned not to consume meat from dead wildlife, as anthrax can be transmitted through contact with contaminated animal products. The disease primarily affects grazing animals and can lead to sudden death. The outbreak has been reported in the Munyamadzi Game Management Area in Muchinga province, where wildlife carcasses have been found and consumed by local communities.
Since July, 46 hippos, eight elephants, five buffaloes, and one crocodile have died in the area. No human deaths have been reported, but 12 individuals are currently receiving treatment for anthrax. Officials have urged the public to report any dead animals and avoid handling wildlife. The national coordinator of Zambia's Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit, Norman Chipakupaku, noted that local people often rely on dead wildlife for food, which has contributed to the spread of the disease. The cause of the outbreak remains under investigation, with no definitive conclusions yet reached.
Why it matters
Hunting restrictions aim to prevent further spread of the disease until its full impact is understood.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.
What to watch
Watch for health authorities to confirm the source of the infected meat in ongoing investigations.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.
