A growing anthrax outbreak in Zambia has sparked international concern, prompting the World Health Organization (WHO) to issue an alert.
As of November 20, 684 suspected human cases, including four deaths, have been reported across nine out of 10 Zambian provinces.
This marks the country’s first significant outbreak since 2011, when 511 suspected cases were recorded.
Anthrax is a zoonotic disease caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis, primarily affecting ruminants like cows, sheep, and goats.
The WHO considers the risk of further spread within Zambia to be high, citing the frequent movement of people and animals between Zambia and its neighbors – Angola, Botswana, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zimbabwe.
“International travelers to anthrax-endemic countries should be aware of the current health risk,” warns the WHO.
However, based on available information, the organization advises against travel or trade restrictions with Zambia.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has included Zambia in its Travel Health Advisories for 2023, citing the anthrax outbreak alongside measles and polio as potential health risks.
Humans typically contract anthrax through exposure to infected animals, carcasses, or animal products.
More than 95% of human cases involve the cutaneous form, arising from handling contaminated materials.
The bacteria produce potent toxins responsible for the disease’s symptoms, including a high mortality rate in the pulmonary form.
While vaccination programs exist for livestock, human access to anthrax vaccines remains limited.
However, Emergent BioSolutions Inc. recently announced a $75 million contract with the U.S. Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority to acquire the newly licensed CYFENDUS anthrax vaccine.
While deliveries are expected to begin in the U.S. in 2023, these vaccines remain unavailable to the general public.