Anthrax is a significant zoonotic disease with global implications, causing between 20,000 to 100,000 human cases annually, according to WHO estimates. In the tropics where anthrax is endemic, animal outbreaks are characterised by sporadic cases occurring in irregular patterns. In Kenya, human and animal anthrax outbreaks have been reported in various counties, including Nakuru, Meru, Kisii, Murang’a, Kakamega, Kisumu, and Narok.

Murang’a County has been facing recurrent anthrax outbreaks, with the most recent occurring in February 2024. During a multisectoral meeting on February 12, 2024, involving the County departments of Health and Livestock, it was reported that 18 suspected anthrax cases had been managed across various health facilities. One individual, admitted to Maragua Sub-county Hospital, had slaughtered a cow that had died suddenly in Kahumbu ward, Kigumo Sub-county. Of the 18 cases, 10 were involved in slaughtering the cow, and five developed skin lesions characteristic of cutaneous anthrax. The meat from the cow had been consumed by numerous individuals within the community, resulting in 165 identified contacts. Additionally, students from two schools (primary and secondary) presented with gastrointestinal symptoms after consuming meat from their homes.

In response to the outbreak, the Ministry of Health deployed a multidisciplinary field investigation team, including members from the Kenya Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program (FELTP), the Zoonotic Disease Unit (ZDU), and other stakeholders, to conduct an investigation in Murang’a County. The investigation, carried out between February 14 – 20, 2024, aimed to determine the extent of the outbreak, conduct risk assessments, and implement prevention and control measures.