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Over 100 Meru residents hospitalized after consuming anthrax-infected cow meat

More than 100 residents in Meru county are receiving treatment at Nyambene Level Four Hospital after consuming meat from a cow confirmed to have died of anthrax. Health officials warn that the number of cases could increase as more people come forward for screening, and contact tracing is underway. Authorities stated the outbreak could have been prevented, as locals reportedly ignored warnings to safely dispose of the infected carcass. By midday on Thursday, April 16, eight patients had tested positive for anthrax, exhibiting skin-related symptoms or gastrointestinal complications. Despite the outbreak, Nyambene Hospital's medical superintendent Githu Wachira confirmed all admitted patients are in stable condition. Meru County Public Health Officer Mary Muthaura criticized locals for disregarding expert advice, noting that a meat inspector had already declared the carcass unsafe for consumption, but the owner sold the meat to neighbors instead of disposing of it properly. Health guidelines mandate that animals suspected of anthrax infection be either burned or buried deep underground to prevent disease spread. Anthrax is a bacterial infection transmitted from animals to humans through contact with infected carcasses or consumption of contaminated products, commonly presenting as skin lesions or severe digestive issues. The disease is a recurring threat in counties including Meru, Nakuru, Murang'a, Kiambu, and Narok.