Health authorities in Lyantonde District have intensified surveillance and community sensitization after a suspected outbreak of anthrax claimed two lives and left several others under treatment.
Anthrax is caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis, which humans generally acquire through direct or indirect contact with infected animals or contaminated animal products.
Officials from the Masaka Regional Referral Hospital Emergency Operations Centre, which coordinates disease outbreaks and disaster responses, said investigations are ongoing to confirm the cause of the illness affecting residents in Kaliiro, Kasagama, and Lyantonde sub-counties.
Dr Fred Walugembe, leading the surveillance team, said health workers have spent the last five days tracing suspected cases and interviewing affected families.
He added that preliminary signs point to anthrax, though laboratory tests are still underway.
Health officials urged residents to avoid slaughtering animals that die mysteriously and to purchase meat only inspected and stamped by certified veterinary officers.
Lyantonde District Health Officer, Dr Moses Nkanika, confirmed the two deaths, adding that several suspected cases are being managed at Kasagama and Kaliiro Health Centre IIIs.
The district has engaged the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) to support emergency livestock vaccination aimed at controlling the outbreak at its source.
Dr Edgar Musiime, representing the District Veterinary Officer, confirmed that MAAIF has been formally notified and urgent intervention is awaited.
Lyantonde Assistant Resident District Commissioner, Dorcus Kanatukunda, said authorities are also running public awareness campaigns through radio and community outreach.