MERU, Kenya — A second death has been reported in Meru County following a suspected outbreak of Anthrax linked to the consumption of contaminated meat, raising fresh public health concerns in the region.
Health officials confirmed that a 36-year-old man died after eating meat believed to have come from an infected cow in Mathangwe village, Igoji. At least 36 other residents were treated at the hospital, with most discharged after receiving care.
The latest incident, reported on April 19 in Gikui village, saw residents develop symptoms including dizziness, headaches, and stomach pain after consuming the meat between April 15 and 16.
According to officials at Kanyakine Sub-County Hospital, 23 adults and 12 children were treated and discharged, while one patient remained admitted in isolation in serious condition.
The deceased, identified as Amos Gikunda, succumbed at the facility after falling ill, marking the second fatality in the area within days. Another man died earlier on April 16 in neighbouring Maua, where over 200 people were also treated and discharged.
Authorities say the infections are likely linked to a cow that died from suspected anthrax, with residents reportedly consuming the meat before veterinary inspection.
The incidents have triggered an emergency response, with additional veterinary officers deployed to the affected areas to vaccinate livestock and contain the spread.
Local butcheries have been warned against slaughtering or selling uninspected meat, while residents have been urged to avoid consuming meat from animals that die under unclear circumstances.
Public health teams have also intensified community sensitisation, advising locals to properly dispose of animal carcasses through burial to prevent further infections.
Anthrax is caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis, which occurs naturally in soil and commonly affects livestock and wild animals. Humans can contract the disease through contact with infected animals or contaminated products.
Medical experts note that anthrax can present in different forms, including skin infections characterised by black-centred ulcers, as well as intestinal illness marked by abdominal pain, diarrhoea, and vomiting.
Officials have urged residents to seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms and to cooperate with ongoing containment measures.
