…cautions against eating of ponmo, others
The Ekiti State Government has raised an alarm on the outbreak of Anthrax disease.
This was contained in a press statement jointly signed by the State’s Special Adviser on Agriculture and Food Security, Ebenezer Boluwade, and also the Honourable Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr Oyebanji Filani.
According to the statement, anthrax is an infectious disease that is capable of affecting both humans and animals, causing some damages to the respiratory system.
“Anthrax is a serious disease that affects both animals and humans (Zoonotic). It presents flu-like symptoms such as cough, painless sores with a black centre appearing after the blister, fever, and muscle aches, and if not diagnosed and treated promptly, it can lead to severe complications including pneumonia, respiratory problems, shock and even death.
“Anthrax is primarily a disease of animals; however, due to the close proximity between humans and animals, it can easily be transmitted to humans through inhalation of anthrax spores or consumption of contaminated or infected animal products such as hides and skins, meat and milk.”
The State Government suggests preventive measures to counter the spread and contraction of the disease, which include intensified vaccination, proper disposal of suspected and Infected animals, avoidance of risky Consumptions, hygiene Practices, effective disinfection, veterinary assistance, decontamination, reporting suspicions and some other health tips were recommended.
In addition, Ekiti Government implored the general public, farmers, butchers and stakeholders in the agricultural sector to adhere strictly to the preventive measures.
Also, to discard all forms of panic about the disease, the statement revealed that, the State’s Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, in collaboration with the State Ministry of Health and Human Services are monitoring the situation and would provide updates and further guidance concerning the disease, advising residents to collaborate with the health agencies by transmitting the message.