The Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Health have reported that there is an outbreak of anthrax disease among animals in Port Loko District in the North-Western Region of Sierra Leone.

The government ministries made this announcement in a press release issued today, 16 May, 2022.

“The Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Health and Sanitation hereby reports an outbreak of anthrax disease among animals in Port Loko District in the North-Western region of Sierra Leone,” they stated.

Anthrax is a serious infectious disease that commonly affects farm, domestic and wild animals.

People can get sick with anthrax if they come in contact with infected animals or contaminated animal products. Anthrax can cause severe illness in both humans and animals. However, it is a treatable condition.

“In view of the above, government is evaluating its options to institute restrictions on the production, processing and marketing of livestock and livestock products, mainly cattle, sheep and goats,” the Ministry stated.

“While that comprehensive set of restrictions is being considered, the ministries of Agriculture and Health and Sanitation would advise members of the public to report to officials of those two ministries any case of sick cattle, sheep and goats in their household, neighborhood or community. As of now no human case has been confirmed.”

“In the maintime, we whish, to advise all not to try and administer treatment on the sick animals on your own or eat them or their products,” they added.

Ministry of Agriculture Vontact no: 078-354-828
ministry of Health and Sanitation contact no: 076-602-460 Emergency no: 117