The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development( FMARD) has warned Nigerians to avoid consuming Cow Skin, popularly Ponmo
The warning followed the recent outbreak of Anthrax disease in neighbouring West African countries.
FMARD strongly advised that Nigerians take the necessary precautions to avoid contracting Anthrax.
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It advised Nigerians against the intake of other food items, including, smoked meat, and bush meat, until the situation is brought under control.
The outbreak was initially detected near the northern border of Ghana, Burkina Faso, and Togo, which has raised concerns about the potential spread of the disease throughout the entire sub-region.
Dr Ernest Afolabi Umakhihe, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry revealed that the bacterial disease, which affects both animals and humans, has already claimed numerous lives.
Umakhihe explained that Anthrax was caused by spores that naturally exist in the soil and commonly affect domestic and wild animals.
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He also recommended that individuals who come into contact with animals, especially those that have died suddenly, take extra care and report any suspicious cases to the authorities.
According to him, the symptoms of Anthrax were similar to those of the flu, including coughing, fever, and muscle aches. If left untreated, the disease can progress to severe lung problems, breathing difficulties, shock, and even death.
Though Anthrax was not contagious and cannot be transmitted through close contact with an infected individual. However, it can be contracted by inhaling Anthrax spores or consuming contaminated animal products, the PS added.
