Health and livestock officials in Meru County have dismissed claims that a shortage of inspection officers led to the recent anthrax outbreak in Antubochiu Ward, Igembe South Constituency, which left one person dead and several others affected.
The officials spoke at Nyambene Level 4 Hospital, where those affected were treated.
The incident occurred after residents consumed meat from a dead cow, despite warnings from veterinary and public health officers.
County Chief Officer for Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries, Baituti Isaiah, said the animal in question had already been inspected and found unfit for human consumption.
He explained that the cow showed signs of anthrax and the owner had been instructed to dispose of the carcass safely, but instead defied the directive and sold the meat to unsuspecting residents.
Baituti noted that Antubochiu Ward has seven slaughterhouses served by four inspection officers, dismissing claims that the county lacks adequate personnel.
He emphasized that the tragedy resulted from individual negligence rather than a systemic failure.
“We have enough livestock and public health officers on the ground. The problem arose when the owner ignored professional advice and went ahead to sell contaminated meat,” he said.
He urged residents to avoid consuming meat from dead animals and to always adhere to guidance issued by inspection officers.
“I also want to confirm that a mass vaccination campaign for livestock is ongoing. I encourage armers to present their animals for vaccination against diseases such as foot and mouth,” said Baitutu.
Meru County Chief Officer for Health, Dr Koome Muthuri said swift action was taken immediately after the first case was reported.
A total of 256 people were traced, with only 10 showing symptoms of anthrax.
Those affected were treated and discharged, while the rest were given preventive antibiotics.
“No patient is currently admitted in hospital. We have managed to contain the situation,” she said, adding that her department is working closely with agricultural officers to sensitise the community on food safety.
Local leaders also weighed in, calling for responsibility among residents and cautioning against politicising the matter.
Maua MCA Duncan Kangwanga commended health facilities for offering free treatment to victims and maintaining adequate medical supplies and personnel.
He urged leaders not to drag the county government into blame, insisting that the existing workforce is sufficient.
“This issue should not be politicised. Residents ignored clear warnings and consumed unsafe meat,” he said.
Hospital board member Mike Kobia echoed the sentiments, warning against exploiting the tragedy for political gain.
He also revealed that Nyambene Hospital has recently acquired a CT scan machine, which is expected to significantly improve healthcare services in the region.
Njia Ward MCA Ali Mwenda confirmed that only one fatality was recorded and praised healthcare workers for effectively handling the surge of patients during the incident.
Igembe East MCA Murithi Mutiria called for legal action against the individual who sold the contaminated meat, urging residents to only purchase meat from licensed butcheries inspected and approved by health officers.
Authorities have reiterated the importance of strict adherence to public health guidelines, warning that consuming uninspected or suspicious meat poses serious health risks.
The county government has pledged to intensify public awareness campaigns and continue strengthening disease prevention measures to avoid similar incidents in the future.
