The Ekiti State Government has revealed why residents should stop eating ponmo, smoked meats, and bush animals, News About Nigeria reports.
This warning was contained in a statement signed by Ebenezer Boluwade special adviser to the governor on Agriculture and Food Security.
The government said such meats should be avoided due to the viral zoonotic Anthrax disease that has been affecting both humans and animals.
The government listed ways one can prevent the disease by vaccinating the animals and other livestock.
Any animals showing symptoms of Anthrax should be buried deeply in the ground, along with the tools used in the burial process.
Prior to burial, appropriate chemicals should be applied to kill the anthrax spores, preventing further spread.
The government advised that risky animal products, such as hides (ponmo), smoked meat, and bush meat should be avoided for now until the situation is under control.
Humans can contract the disease through inhaling anthrax spores or consuming contaminated animal products, such as hides, meat, and milk.
Strict adherence to environmental and personal hygiene is necessary in places where by-products like hides, bone meal, and blood meal are produced.
Keeping these areas clean and sanitized minimizes the risk of contamination.
Particular attention should be given to individuals at higher risk, including those handling animals, consuming dead animals, healthcare workers, law enforcement officers, and recent travelers to locations with confirmed anthrax cases.
If Anthrax is suspected and an animal dies, avoid opening the carcass. Instead, promptly contact a veterinarian who will conduct aseptic procedures to collect blood samples for analysis from peripheral blood vessels.
Any areas or soil where a suspected dead animal is found should be thoroughly decontaminated to prevent further transmission and maintain a safe environment.
