©FAO

In the summer of 2023, the peaceful town of Sinazongwe, in southern Zambia, faced an unprecedented crisis that endangered its community. Reports surfaced of individuals developing mysterious sores after consuming meat. However, the absence of any signs of disease in domestic animals added an unsettling twist to this mystery. In response, the Emergency Centre for Transboundary Diseases (ECTAD) of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) spurred into action. With logistical support from the FAO Global Health Security (GHS) program, funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), a multi-sectoral team undertook a comprehensive monitoring and surveillance exercise, including community engagement in affected areas.

This expert team, composed of members from the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS), the Ministry of Health, and the Department of National Parks and Wildlife, joined forces within the framework of the One Health approach, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. Led by local leaders with knowledge of the area and the situation, including village headmen and a dedicated local representative from the municipal council, the team travelled to Sinazongwe district, one of the affected districts in the Southern province. They conducted extensive fieldwork in Siabanswi, Muuka, and Dengeza villages, including meetings with farmers and community members, conducting interviews, implementing data collection tools, and firsthand interactions with affected individuals.

The findings of the One Health outbreak investigation confirmed that anthrax was the cause of the mysterious sores affecting community members, linked to consumption of infected meat.

"In our village, we suffered several cattle deaths, but we didn't report them because we ate the meat, not knowing the disease could also affect people. When the people from the Department of Veterinary Services came, they informed us that we were not supposed to open the animals or eat the meat because it was the same disease causing the skin disease being experienced in the area," said James Syalyolyo, a Chairman for Makuni Village. "Since then, we have stopped cutting open or eating the dead cattle, and we have burnt all the dead animals and disinfected the places where they died in the fields. We are grateful to the DVS for arranging vaccinations to be conducted to protect our animals and the community from this disease."

Laboratory tests confirmed the presence of Bacillus anthracis, validating the team's initial diagnosis. Following the investigation's conclusion, the team convened a stakeholder meeting to discuss the findings and plan the next steps. An extensive campaign, facilitated by the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, was carried out to administer vaccines to around 41 600 cattle, 4 700 goats and 600 sheep. This initiative successfully disrupted the disease cycle. Additionally, thorough sanitation measures were implemented at animal burial sites to mitigate future risks. Intensified awareness efforts were conducted to empower local communities in disease control.

Furthermore, collaboration extended to wildlife authorities, resulting in enhanced monitoring of hippos and the prevention of illegal livestock routes, which helped to halt the spread of the disease.

“Our collective aim through the assistance of USAID, is to support the effective implementation of strategies to prepare, detect, prevent and respond to prioritized zoonotic diseases," said Niwael MtuiMalamsha, FAO ECTAD Country Team Leader in Zambia.

A model to follow

The Sinazongwe response showcases resilience and collaboration, thwarting a potential crisis through cross-disciplinary engagement and community unity. It underscores the significance of surveillance, information exchange, and global partnership in safeguarding human and animal wellbeing.

"The collaborative spirit and the expertise shared during this critical phase were invaluable. Our unified efforts have saved lives and fortified our community against future challenges," acknowledged Dr. Wilfred Tembo, the Provincial Veterinary Officer for Southern Province.

As FAO continues its work to promote One Health principles, real-world triumphs like this inspire a future where health and prosperity thrive hand in hand.

As the deadline to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) looms closer, Sinazongwe's success is a potent reminder: unity can turn adversity into opportunity, shaping a healthier and brighter future for all. Utilizing the One Health approach will enhance disease prevention and control, food safety, sustainable environmental practices, and global public health, contributing to a more resilient and healthier ecosystem.