FG raises alarm over dangerous virus found in ponmo, warns against close contact with infected persons

The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has issued a warning regarding the safety of consuming ponmo (hides), smoked meat, and bush meat due to the recent outbreak of Anthrax in neighboring countries within the West African sub-region.

Nigerians are advised to avoid consuming these food items as they present a significant health risk until the situation is effectively addressed. The outbreak of Anthrax initially occurred in northern Ghana, which shares borders with Burkina Faso and Togo, thereby posing a potential threat to the entire sub-region.

“The disease which has claimed some lives, is a bacterial disease that affects both animals and man, that is a zoonotic disease. Anthrax spores are naturally found in the soil and commonly affect domestic and wild animals.

“People can get infected with Anthrax spores if they come in contact with infected animals or contaminated animal products. However, Anthrax is not a contagious disease and so, one cannot get it by coming in close contact with an infected person.“Signs of anthrax are flu- like symptoms such as cough, fever, muscle aches and if not diagnosed and treated early, lead to pneumonia, severe lung problems, difficulty in breathing, shock and death.”

Nigerians have also been warned against closeness to non-vaccinated animals with Anthrax as it can easily be transmitted to man through the inhalation of Anthrax spores including consumption of contaminated/Infected animal products, such as hides and skin, meat or milk.

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