Published January 14, 2026 | Version v1
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Animal anthrax in northern Tanzania (2015-2025): Epidemiological trends and frontline response capacity

Authors/Creators

  • 1. Department of Global Health and Biomedical Sciences, The Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST), Arusha, Tanzania

Contributors

  • 1. Department of Global Health and Biomedical Sciences, The Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST), Arusha, Tanzania
  • 2. President's Office, Regional Administration and Local Government Tanzania (PO-RALG)-Arusha District Council, Arusha, Tanzania

Description

Anthrax remains endemic in northern Tanzania, driven by environmental persistence and livestock-wildlife interfaces, posing recurrent outbreak risks. A retrospective analysis of microscopically confirmed animal anthrax cases (2015-2025) from TVLA and ZVC was combined with a cross-sectional survey of 26 animal health practitioners (AHPs) in Arusha, Kilimanjaro, and Manyara. A total of 330 cases were confirmed (287 livestock, 43 wildlife), with 75% concentrated in Arusha. Bovines accounted for 57% of livestock cases, with significant interspecies and inter-district variation. Outbreaks peaked in October–December (34.8%) and January-March (26.8%). Livestock prevalence (2020–2024) was 6.11%, highest in bovines (8.83%). Wildlife cases clustered in Arusha and Babati, notably wildebeest and zebra. ARIMA modelling projected stabilization at ~14.1 monthly cases. Only one AHP reported anthrax training; outbreak reporting was inconsistent. Seasonal hotspots highlight the need for strengthened vaccination, diagnostics, training, and one-health coordination to improve anthrax control.

published by the International Journal of Biosciences | IJB

 

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https://innspub.net/animal-anthrax-in-northern-tanzania-2015-2025-epidemiological-trends-and-frontline-response-capacity/

Dates

Available
2026-01-14
article published

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