As a way of optimising animal health and safeguarding the health and well-being of residents against the outbreak of Anthrax disease in Nigeria, Ogun State Government, through the Department of Veterinary Services, Ministry of Agriculture has constituted an Emergency Operation Center (EOC) and a rapid response team, to effectively prevent, detect, control, and contain the disease.

          This was contained in a release signed by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mr. Samuel Adeogun, indicating that the Anthrax EOC comprises key stakeholders, including the Ministries of Agriculture, Health, and Environment, as well as the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development.

          The release stated the Center would respond to all aspects of surveillance, risk communication, laboratory diagnosis, logistics, infection, prevention and control, through a collaborative approach known as "One Health", which emphasises the importance of coordinated efforts between different sectors to address public health challenges.

          The release stated further that Anthrax which is caused by spore-forming bacterium Bacillus anthracis, primarily affects animals such as cattle, sheep, and goats but could also pose a risk to humans who come into direct contact with infected animals or contaminated animal products, such as meat, wool, or hides.

          It explained that infection might occur through inhalation of spores or via cutaneous transmission through contact with contaminated animals and their products.

          Therefore, residents are enjoined to ensure safety, prevent potential outbreaks and avoid contact with any animal that has died suddenly or with bleeding from natural body openings, as meats should only be purchased from registered slaughter slabs, while report cases of sudden animal death, especially if unclotted blood is exuding through the orifices, to the appropriate authorities.

           The general public is also urged to remain vigilant, follow the prescribed guidelines, and report any suspicious cases promptly to Veterinary House, Ita-Eko or Ministry of Agriculture, Block D, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta or call 08033794450 or 08033892861 as the State government has put adequate measures in place to ensure that meats sold to the public are fit for human consumption.