A total of 125 animals, including cattle, goats, sheep, and pigs, have succumbed to the Anthrax disease in the Upper East Region by the end of July 2023.
While only one human fatality has been confirmed due to the disease, six municipalities and districts, including Bolgatanga and Kassena-Nankana, have reported positive cases.
In a bid to curb the outbreak, the region embarked on an extensive vaccination campaign.
The first round of vaccinations concluded before the early July ban lift, with an impressive 121,961 animals immunized against Anthrax, marking a critical step in disease prevention.
Dr. Henry Nii Ayi Anang, Upper East Regional Director of Veterinary Services, conveyed these developments during a quarterly Regional Risk Communication and Community Engagement (RCCE) Subcommittee meeting held in Bolgatanga.
The meeting, backed by funding from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Breakthrough Action and organized by the Upper East Regional Directorate of the Ghana Health Service, aimed to fortify awareness and community engagement to control emerging zoonotic diseases like Anthrax, rabies, and Monkeypox.
Stakeholders from various sectors, including the Ghana Health Service, Ghana Education Service, Food and Drugs Authority, and traditional leaders, united to address the challenges posed by these diseases.
The efforts culminated in the imposition of movement and consumption restrictions on animals, particularly cattle and small ruminants when the Anthrax outbreak emerged in June 2023.
Dr. Anang commended the committee for their involvement in engaging communities and enforcing the temporary ban on animal-related activities.
Although the ban has been lifted, vigilance remains crucial to prevent further outbreaks.
The Anthrax disease's endemic nature in the region prompted the initiation of the first phase of animal vaccination.
As vaccines for the second phase arrive, stakeholders have been urged to contribute to these efforts.
With the global menace of zoonotic diseases like Anthrax, rabies, and Monkeypox, the need for robust risk communication and public education has become increasingly evident, ensuring that communities are well-informed and prepared.