Government has confirmed a devastating anthrax outbreak in Gonarezhou National Park, resulting in the deaths of 25 different wildlife species. The Directorate of Veterinary Services disclosed the news, saying the first cases were detected on August 20, 2024.
In a statement, Dr. Pious Makaya, the Chief Director in the Directorate of Veterinary Services, reported that the first known fatality was a kudu bull, recorded on August 19.
The deaths of additional animals on August 20 prompted the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority to investigate the situation urgently. “Samples were airlifted to Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust Veterinary Laboratory for analysis and were confirmed by Dr. Chris Foggin, on August 24, as positive for anthrax,” said Dr. Makaya.
As of August 27, the outbreak has claimed the lives of 29 buffaloes, 18 kudus, 1 elephant, 1 nyala, 2 impalas, 2 baboons, and 1 zebra, sparking concerns among conservationists and local communities.
In response to the outbreak, the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) is working to collect and safely dispose of the carcasses to prevent the disease from spreading further via predators.
The Directorate of Veterinary Services is also intensifying efforts by requesting additional samples from any fresh carcasses found. These samples will be analysed at the Masvingo and Central Veterinary Laboratories to confirm the extent of the outbreak.
Meanwhile, surveillance efforts in 33 dip tanks near Gonarezhou National Park have so far shown no signs of anthrax in livestock. Awareness campaigns are being conducted across Chiredzi District, and stakeholders have been informed of the situation.
“The Directorate is in the process of vaccinating approximately 80,000 cattle in the vicinity of Gonarezhou National Park,” Dr. Makaya revealed, highlighting that these measures are crucial for controlling the spread of the deadly disease.
