Outbreak on Ghaap se Berg: Northern Cape farmers should ensure anthrax vaccinations are up to date

Image: FF Plus

The Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus) urges livestock farmers to ensure their animals are vaccinated against anthrax following a confirmed outbreak on Ghaap se Berg near Douglas.  

Anthrax, caused by the Bacillus anthracis bacterium, is a disease that is fatal to antelope, livestock, and even humans. Therefore, the incident where eland died from the dreaded disease is serious.

The Northern Cape Department of Agriculture and Environmental Affairs issued a warning on Friday that carcasses with signs of bleeding from the nose or anus should be disposed of safely. This requires people to wear protective gear while handling such carcasses and burying the carcass deeper than 1,8 meters.

The disease may be transmitted through exposure to contaminated meat or bodily fluids, or even through contact with bacterial spores. These spores remain infectious for years. 

Fortunately, livestock can be vaccinated against anthrax. According to the Department, there is enough vaccine available in Douglas and Kimberley.

This is not a matter to be taken lightly. Anthrax infection is deadly, for humans as well.

Areas where livestock and game are in close proximity, such as on neighbouring farms on Ghaap se Berg, are particularly vulnerable. So, implementing preventive measures is critically important.