Ekiti State government has alerted the residents of the state over the outbreak of Anthrax disease, warning the people against the consumption of hide(Ponmo), bush meat and smoked meat.
The government on Wednesday in a statement signed by the commissioner for health, Dr Oyebanji Filani and the Special Adviser on agriculture and food security, Ebenezer Boluwade, said pending further directives, residents should abstain as they posed a serious risk.
They explained that people should observe personal and environmental hygiene especially where these animals are being prepared to safeguard public health.
The government called on the stakeholders in the state especially butchers to be proactive, “ in adhering strictly to these preventive measures to safeguard public health and prevent the further spread of anthrax.”
The statement reads, “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.
“ The general public is strongly advised to abstain from the consumption of hides (ponmo), smoked meat, and bush meat, as they pose a serious risk until the situation is brought under control. It is crucial to prioritize public health and safety during this time.
Environmental and personal hygiene must be strictly observed in places where by-products like hides (Ponmo), bone meal, and blood meal are produced. These areas should be maintained in a clean and sanitized condition to minimize the risk of contamination.
“ We specifically encourage persons at risk such as people who handle animals, people who consume dead animals, healthcare workers, law enforcement officers and anyone who recently travelled to a location with a confirmed anthrax case to take their hygiene practices seriously.
