Health 14 September 2026 Nile Post
Zambia Warns Against Eating Wildlife Amid Anthrax Outbreak
Authorities in Zambia are urging the public to refrain from consuming meat from wildlife following a significant anthrax outbreak that has killed dozens of animals. The warning comes as 12 people have been infected after reportedly eating meat from animals that died from the disease. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/370711/zambians-warned-not-to-eat-dead-wildlife-after-anthrax-kills-dozens-of-animals
Zambian authorities have issued an urgent warning to the public against consuming meat from wildlife after a recent anthrax outbreak led to the deaths of numerous animals. The affected species include hippos, elephants, buffalo, and a crocodile.
The outbreak, primarily concentrated in the Munyamadzi Game Management Area in Muchinga province, has resulted in the deaths of at least 46 hippos, eight elephants, five buffaloes, and one crocodile since July, according to the Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit.
Compounding the concern, 12 individuals have contracted anthrax after reportedly consuming meat from these deceased wild animals. These individuals are currently receiving medical treatment, and thankfully, no human fatalities have been reported in this instance.
Officials are emphasizing the critical importance of not consuming meat from any animal that has died naturally or under unknown circumstances. The public has been strongly advised to report any such discoveries immediately. Furthermore, hunting activities in the affected region have been temporarily suspended to prevent further spread and to allow for thorough investigation into the extent of the disease.
Anthrax, a bacterial infection caused by Bacillus anthracis, is known to be endemic in Zambia. While human cases are not common, the country has experienced severe outbreaks in the past, including a widespread event in 2023 affecting nine out of ten provinces, and another in 2011 which saw over 500 cases and five deaths.
“The sad story about the deaths of this wildlife is that the carcasses ended up being eaten by the local people - that’s what they depend on for their food,” noted Norman Chipakupaku, the national coordinator for the Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit, highlighting the challenging circumstances faced by local communities.
Health officials are continuing surveillance and laboratory investigations to determine the full geographical spread of the current outbreak and to assess associated risks. The public is urged to handle wild animals with extreme caution and to avoid any contact with potentially contaminated animal products.
Source: Nile Post