The Nigerian government has issued a public alert through the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development regarding the outbreak of Anthrax in neighboring countries within the West African sub-region, specifically in Northern Ghana near the borders of Burkina Faso and Togo. Anthrax is a bacterial disease that affects both animals and humans, known as a zoonotic disease. The ministry's statement emphasizes that Anthrax is not contagious among humans but can be contracted by coming into contact with infected animals or contaminated animal products.

The symptoms of Anthrax are described as flu-like, including cough, fever, and muscle aches. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial, as the disease can lead to severe complications such as pneumonia, lung problems, difficulty in breathing, shock, and even death. However, Anthrax can be treated with antibiotics and supportive therapy.

While Anthrax primarily affects animals, humans can be infected through the inhalation of spores or consumption of contaminated animal products such as hides, meat, or milk. The statement highlights the availability of Anthrax spore vaccines at the National Veterinary Research Institute in Vom, Plateau State, as a cost-effective and convenient means of preventing and controlling the disease in animals. Animal vaccinations are particularly encouraged in border states like Sokoto, Kebbi, Niger, Kwara, Oyo, Ogun, and Lagos, which are in close proximity to Burkina Faso, Togo, and Ghana. Other states in Nigeria are also advised to participate in the vaccination efforts.

To prevent the spread of Anthrax, it is recommended to bury infected dead animals deeply in the soil, along with equipment used in the burial, after applying chemicals that can kill the Anthrax spores. The public is strongly advised against consuming high-risk items such as hides (pomo), smoked meat, and bush meat until the situation is brought under control.

The Ministry assures the public that the Federal Government has taken action to address the outbreak by resuscitating a Standing Committee on the Control of Anthrax in the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development. Relevant institutions and collaborators have been engaged to assist in controlling the situation, and State Directors of Veterinary Services nationwide have been briefed and sensitized about the outbreak.