Siaya tightens disease control after anthrax outbreak near Gem border

Siaya County has heightened disease control efforts after an anthrax outbreak was confirmed in neighbouring Vihiga County along the Gem Sub-County border, prompting urgent action by the Health and Agriculture departments to shield residents and livestock from possible infection.

In a statement on Friday, “The County Government of Siaya wishes to inform the public of a confirmed anthrax outbreak in neighbouring Vihiga County, bordering Gem Sub-County,” the statement said, warning of a “potential cross-border risk to both human and animal health.”

Officials said the county has moved quickly to coordinate a response that brings together experts from human health, animal health, and environmental sectors under a One Health approach aimed at stopping further spread.

“In response, the County has activated a coordinated One Health emergency response, including heightened surveillance, rapid response teams, livestock movement control, and targeted vaccination in high-risk areas,” the statement said.

The county said monitoring has been intensified in areas near the border, with teams deployed to detect and respond to suspected cases affecting both people and animals.

Authorities have also introduced restrictions on the movement of livestock as part of containment measures, while vaccination campaigns are ongoing in areas identified as vulnerable.

Residents have been issued with guidelines to reduce the risk of exposure to anthrax, which spreads through contact with infected animals or contaminated animal products.

“Do not consume meat that has not been inspected by authorized officers,” the statement said, cautioning residents against consuming potentially unsafe meat.

The advisory also warned against handling animals that die unexpectedly, noting that such cases could be linked to the disease.

“Do not slaughter or handle animals that die suddenly,” the advisory stated.

The county further urged members of the public to report any unusual livestock deaths promptly to authorities.

“Report any sudden livestock deaths immediately to Veterinary Officers or local authorities,” the statement added.

Health officials also advised residents to seek medical attention immediately if they develop symptoms associated with anthrax, particularly after handling animals or consuming meat.

“Seek immediate medical attention if you develop symptoms such as skin sores, swelling, black lesions, fever, or any unusual illness after handling animals or consuming meat,” the advisory said.

Authorities emphasised that early detection and treatment can help manage the disease, adding that all health facilities and veterinary teams have been placed on alert.

Anthrax is a serious infectious disease caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis, which occurs naturally in soil and mainly affects livestock and wild animals. Humans can become infected through direct contact with infected animals or contaminated products.

In animals, the disease often leads to sudden death, fever, and bleeding, posing a major risk to farmers. In humans, it can appear in the skin, lungs, or digestive system, causing symptoms such as sores, breathing problems, vomiting, and shock. If left untreated, it can spread quickly and become fatal due to toxins that damage body tissues.

The county government called on residents, especially those living near the affected border areas, to remain alert and cooperate with authorities in efforts to control the situation.

“We urge all residents, especially in border areas, to remain vigilant and cooperate fully with response teams,” officials said.

The statement was jointly issued by the Chief Officer for Health and Sanitation and the Chief Officer for Agriculture, Food Security, Livestock and Blue Economy, highlighting a united response across departments.

Officials said continued surveillance, public awareness, and cooperation from communities will be key in stopping the spread and protecting both human and animal health.