If you love ponmo, the Nigerian government has a message for you that you should give attention to.
The government through the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has notified the public of an Anthrax outbreak in neighbouring West African countries.
You see, most of the ponmo in Nigeria’s market, especially those that are black are from neighbouring countries.
Nigerians, as a result, have been strongly advised to refrain from consuming hides (ponmo), smoked meat and bush meat until the situation is under control.
The outbreak was first identified near the northern border of Ghana, Burkina Faso, and Togo.
This has put the whole sub-region at risk.
Anthrax Spores
Dr Ernest Afolabi Umakhihe, is the ministry’s Permanent Secretary.
According to him, the bacterial disease that affects both animals and humans has already claimed several lives.
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He explained that “Anthrax spores are naturally found in the soil and commonly affect domestic and wild animals”.
People can become infected with Anthrax spores if they come into contact with infected animals or contaminated animal products.
Symptoms
Anthrax symptoms mimic those of the flu, including cough, fever, and muscle aches.
This can escalate to severe lung problems, difficulty breathing, shock, and even death if not detected and treated early.
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Although Anthrax is not contagious and cannot be spread through close contact with an infected person, it can be transmitted to humans through the inhalation of Anthrax spores or the consumption of infected animal products.
Further Caution
The ministry further cautioned the public to avoid contact with animals that have not been vaccinated against Anthrax.
You should also avoid consuming contaminated or infected animal products, such as hides, meat, or milk.
