Outbreak of Anthrax with Human Cases in Lesotho

Veterinary authorities detected an outbreak of anthrax in cows in late April. Subsequently, since mid-May, 20 human infections were reported in villages near the capital city of Maseru. The infected people were exposed to dead or sick cattle.

Advice

The risk of exposure to this bacterial infection is low for the general traveller. This infection is caused by a bacterium called Bacillus anthracis and results from contact with the bacterium’s spores, which are usually present in sick or dying cattle, goats, etc. The spores may be present in infectious animal products. Contact occurs by breathing or consuming the spores or through an area of broken skin. It does not typically spread directly between people. There are four forms of illness: skin, lungs, intestinal, and injection. The most serious forms result from inhalation or consumption of the spores.