Zambia warns against eating dead wildlife after anthrax kills dozens of animals

At least 12 individuals are currently receiving medical treatment for anthrax after consuming meat contaminated with the bacterium from wildlife carcasses, health officials reported on Thursday. The cases were identified in the wake of a series of investigations that linked the infections to the illegal sale and consumption of meat sourced from dead animals found in the region’s protected areas. Laboratory testing confirmed the presence of *Bacillus anthracis* in the meat samples, prompting local hospitals to initiate antibiotic therapy for the affected patients and to monitor them for any complications.

Public health authorities have issued advisories urging residents to avoid handling or eating meat from wildlife carcasses and to report any suspicious animal deaths to veterinary services. Surveillance teams are conducting field inspections to locate additional contaminated carcasses and to implement decontamination measures. The coordinated response aims to contain the outbreak, prevent further human exposure, and reinforce existing regulations on wildlife product handling.