Health authorities in Congo are scrambling to contain a deadly anthrax outbreak that has claimed one life and triggered a cross-border alert. The outbreak, centred in North Kivu Province near Lake Edward, has resulted in 16 suspected and one confirmed human case. It is linked to an ongoing outbreak in neighbouring Uganda, where seven suspected cases have been reported in the western Kabale district.

Initial alerts were raised on March 22 after dozens of buffaloes and hippopotamuses were found dead in Virunga National Park. Experts believe the outbreak began in wildlife before spreading to nearby communities. The World Health Organization (WHO) is supporting Congolese officials in efforts to prevent further transmission of the disease. Measures include livestock vaccination, safe disposal of animal carcasses and surveillance to trace the source and chains of transmission. Dr Boureima Sambo, WHO Representative in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, said: “Our efforts are focused on swiftly breaking the animal-to-human transmission.

"We’re working closely with the government, communities and partners to strengthen response measures to protect public health now and in the future.”

Anthrax is a bacterial infection that primarily affects animals, but can infect humans through contact with contaminated carcasses or animal products.

The disease is not generally considered contagious between people, though rare cases of person-to-person transmission have been recorded.

Dr Sambo said: “Preventing the disease in animals protects human health. A rapid, integrated response through the One Health approach is vital to contain this outbreak and safeguard communities on both sides of the border.”

The One Health model, which recognises the connection between human, animal and environmental health, is being used to coordinate response efforts between Congo, Uganda and international partners.

In humans, anthrax can take three forms – cutaneous, gastrointestinal and inhalation – all of which require immediate medical attention. Cutaneous anthrax, the most common, causes a black sore on the skin and flu-like symptoms.

Gastrointestinal anthrax results from eating infected meat and leads to vomiting, severe stomach pain and diarrhoea. Inhalation anthrax is the rarest and deadliest form, beginning with cold-like symptoms that can rapidly lead to shock and respiratory failure.

All human cases require hospitalisation and treatment with antibiotics. While vaccines exist, supplies for human use are limited and usually reserved for individuals with occupational exposure risks.

WHO is currently conducting a risk assessment to evaluate the likelihood of further spread. Public awareness campaigns have been launched in affected communities to encourage safe practices and reduce the risk of exposure.

A WHO spokesperson said: “We are supporting disease surveillance and investigation to identify the source of the outbreak and interrupt transmission. At the same time, medical supplies are being delivered to frontline responders.”

The outbreak's proximity to Virunga National Park – one of Africa’s most biodiverse ecosystems – adds to concerns. Conservation officials are monitoring the situation amid fears the disease could spread further among wildlife.

Cross-border coordination has been ramped up between Congo and Uganda. WHO is facilitating information sharing and joint response planning to stop the outbreak from escalating into a wider regional crisis.

While the outbreak remains localised, officials have warned that further cases are likely unless the chain of transmission is broken quickly. Efforts are underway to increase veterinary support and extend vaccination to at-risk livestock in surrounding areas.

Dr Sambo said: “This outbreak is a reminder that diseases in animals can have a major impact on human health. Strengthening our collective capacity to detect and respond to these threats is essential for long-term global health security.”