National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) says some intending Nigerian pilgrims, especially those engaged in transborder trade with neighbouring countries, are at risk of anthrax infection.

This follows reports of anthrax outbreaks in these neighbouring countries.

Dr Sa’id Ahmad Dumbulwa, NAHCON’s commissioner in charge of Health, said the advisory became necessary following the confirmation of the disease outbreaks in Ghana, Togo and Burkina Faso.

He said the disease, which is primarily caused by bacteria, affects animals and humans.

Mr Dumbulwa further stated that the disease is widely spread in the northern parts of those countries, whose inhabitants are mostly Muslims and also livestock farmers whose animals transverse the West African subregion in search of pastures. He said it is feared that this might result in transmitting and spread of the disease in Nigeria.

The NAHCON executive said the commission was issuing the advisory as a precautionary measure to Nigerian pilgrims who may come in contact with fellow Muslims from the affected West African nations during this year’s hajj.

Meanwhile, Mr Dumbulwa mentioned that the Federal Ministry of Health in collaboration with that of Agriculture has advised against the consumption of bush meats, hides (ponmo), smoked meat and others in order to avoid infection.

The physician said the flu-like symptoms of the disease include fever, cough, muscle aches, and if not treated, will lead to pneumonia, severe lung complications, difficulty in breathing, shock and death.