By Michael Gwarisa
The Ministry of Health and Child Care (MoHCC) has reported new anthrax cases in both Gokwe North and Gokwe South districts over the past two weeks, raising concern over possible animal-to-human transmission.
According to the MoHCC Weekly Epidemiology and Disease Surveillance Report for the week ending 26 October 2025, six new anthrax cases and zero deaths were recorded. Five cases were reported in Gokwe North and one in Gokwe South. Cumulatively, 153 human anthrax cases and no deaths have been recorded this year.
Anthrax is a zoonotic disease, meaning it is transmitted from animals to humans. It is caused by the Bacillus anthracis bacterium, which forms spores that can survive in soil for many years. Humans usually contract anthrax through direct contact with infected animals or by handling or consuming meat from carcasses of animals that died from the disease. The new infections in Gokwe could therefore indicate that some residents might be eating meat from infected carcasses or coming into contact with contaminated animal products during slaughtering or skinning.
Anthrax is considered endemic in Gokwe, Zimbabwe, with regular outbreaks reported over the years, particularly linked to contact with and consumption of infected animal carcasses. The disease is widespread across Zimbabwe, and Gokwe is recognized as one of the districts where anthrax outbreaks occur almost annually, affecting both humans and livestock. Studies in Gokwe have shown that risk factors for anthrax infection include handling or eating meat from infected animals, especially during drought periods or when carcasses are not properly disposed of. The disease persists due to the ability of Bacillus anthracis spores to survive in soil for many years, leading to recurring outbreaks when environmental conditions favor spore activation.
The Zimbabwean government and local health authorities have implemented regular zoonotic committee meetings, annual cattle vaccination programs, and community education campaigns to mitigate the risk of anthrax in Gokwe and other affected areas. Despite these efforts, sporadic outbreaks continue, underscoring the endemic nature of anthrax in the region.
