Hippos anthrax Virunga: Virunga National Park, Africa’s oldest, faces tragedy as an anthrax outbreak kills dozens of hippos.
Park officials and Reuters reported that they found at least 50 dead hippopotamuses in the Ishasha River and along its banks in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The park’s director, Emmanuel De Merode, confirmed the deaths, though the exact cause of the outbreak remains under investigation.
What Is Anthrax?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) describes anthrax as a disease caused by bacteria found in soil.Via polluted soil, plants, or water, it can spread to cattle and wildlife.
In Africa, anthrax epidemics in wild animals are not unusual, especially during dry seasons or when animals congregate near limited water sources.
Impact on Wildlife
Virunga is one of the most biologically diverse parks in the world. Anthrax has affected not only hippos but also other animals like buffalo during past outbreaks.
The hippopotamus population in the park has already faced massive declines due to poaching and habitat destruction. In the 1970s, the park had nearly 30,000 hippos. That number has dropped by 95%, with only about 1,200 remaining, according to the park’s website.
Response Attempts Encountering Difficulties
In order to stop the carcasses from spreading further, De Merode stated that attempts are being made to remove them from the river. However, logistics and restricted access are making the effort challenging.
De Merode told Reuters, “We have the means to limit the spread by burying them with caustic soda.”
Dead hippos floating in the water in photos released by park officials highlight the tragic reality of the situation and serve as a sobering reminder of the park’s vulnerability and the pressing need to manage illness.
Source: USA Today
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