13/09/2026
DEVELOPMENTAL SEGMENT
ANTHRAX OUTBREAK: 14 HUMAN CASES CONFIRMED IN NABWALYA AS GOVERNMENT MOVES TO CONTAIN SPREAD
MPIKA, ZAMBIA,Muchinga Province Permanent Secretary Dr. Tuesday Bwalya has assured residents of Nabwalya community in Mpika District that government is doing everything possible to contain the ongoing Anthrax outbreak.
Dr. Bwalya made the assurance today when he visited the affected community to assess the situation on the ground. During the visit, he toured Kalimba Health Post, where he found six patients admitted.
According to Provincial Health Director Dr. David Silweya, the total number of confirmed human cases has reached 14. Of these, six are still receiving treatment at Kalimba Health Post, while the rest have been discharged.
"The Ministry of Health is still conducting an active case search of cases," Dr. Silweya said. He urged members of the public to seek medical attention immediately upon noticing any signs and symptoms of Anthrax.
Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit (DMMU) Regional Coordinator Michael Muyoba confirmed the 14 human cases, stating that authorities are working tirelessly to stop people from consuming animals found dead.
"The community is being cautioned to leave alone and report any dead animal to the authorities," Mr. Muyoba said.
Meanwhile, National Parks and Wildlife Senior Warden Peter Sichivula disclosed that hippos, buffaloes, and elephants have continued to die in the area. He revealed that his team, in collaboration with Zambia Police, is working tirelessly to ensure there is no transportation of animal carcasses or any game meat out of Nabwalya.
Mr. Sichivula said security has been tightened to ensure there is no further spread of Anthrax to other parts of the province and the country.
The senior warden confirmed that the animal Carcasses are being buried or burnt away from homes.
The Permanent Secretary also paid a courtesy call on Chief Nabwalya, who pledged full support to the government in helping stop the spread of the disease.
Dr. Bwalya, accompanied by a team from Public Health, DMMU, and local headmen, held a community engagement meeting with the public to sensitize residents about Anthrax, including its prevention and treatment.
Anthrax is a serious infectious disease caused by bacteria that can affect both humans and animals. It is commonly transmitted to humans through contact with infected animals or consumption of contaminated animal products.
MUCHINGA PROVINCE IMPLEMENTORS TEAM
