The Lagos state government says six animals in the state have been confirmed to have anthrax disease.
Anthrax is a spore-forming bacterial infection caused by Bacillus anthracis. Ruminants such as cows, sheep, and goats are commonly affected.
It is a zoonotic illness that spreads from infected animals to people.
Humans can become infected if they come into touch with contaminated animal products or handle or participate in the slaughter of a sick animal.
In a statement on Sunday, Olatokunbo Emokpae, the permanent secretary of the ministry of Agriculture, said the cases were discovered during surveillance of animals on Lagos Island and Agege.
According to NAN, Emokpae said the animals have been confiscated, burnt, and buried, to prevent the spread of the disease.
She said no human infection has been identified or reported since the discovery of anthrax disease in Lagos.
She added that human and animal surveillance have been stepped up and free vaccination has been intensified.
“Animal owners should take advantage of the exercise by coming forward with their herd for inoculation,” the statement reads.
‘“Please report cases of symptoms in animals to the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture, Director of Veterinary Services via telephone on 08023427594, 08180703010 or contact the Veterinary Epidemiologist on 08023328244.”
