This archive report was first published on 12 July 2019.
On July 12, 2019, an outbreak of anthrax was confirmed in Kisumu, Kenya, after one person died and four others were admitted in critical condition.
The victims, all from the Nyamasaria area in the outskirts of Kisumu, are suspected to have eaten meat from a dead cow believed to have been infected with anthrax.
Confirming the outbreak, county Health director Dr. Dickens Onyango said the dead man and the four in hospital had slaughtered the infected cow.
“The five fell ill but reported late at the facility after the symptoms worsened,” said Onyango.
He added that the four admitted at the Kisumu County Hospital were responding well to treatment.
Health officials have urged residents to seek immediate treatment if they develop symptoms such as general body weakness, fever, and body pains and wounds after coming into contact with animals.
Dr. Evans Odhiambo, the County director of veterinary services, announced that the department will embark on mass vaccination of domestic animals starting next week.
