Here’s the translation into American English:
Health authorities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) are on alert due to an outbreak of anthrax that has predominantly affected North Kivu province. So far, 16 suspected cases and one confirmed case have been reported, according to a statement from the World Health Organization (WHO), which also notes a death associated with this health emergency.
Boureima Sambo, WHO representative in the DRC, emphasized the urgent need to contain the transmission of the disease, which can be transmitted from animals to humans. The organization is closely collaborating with local governments and communities to implement effective response measures, including intensive surveillance and the provision of medical treatments.
A sporadic bacterial infection, anthrax mainly affects animals, although humans can become infected through direct contact with infected animals or by consuming contaminated products. Symptoms in humans can manifest in various forms, including cutaneous, gastrointestinal, and inhalational, with hospitalization necessary for all cases.
The most common form, cutaneous anthrax, occurs when spores come into contact with skin wounds, causing itching and lesions. Gastrointestinal anthrax results from consuming contaminated meat and can lead to severe symptoms similar to food poisoning. The most severe form, inhalational anthrax, may start as a cold but can quickly progress to serious respiratory complications.
To combat the outbreak, vaccination campaigns for livestock have been initiated in areas near rivers, and measures are being taken to properly dispose of the bodies of infected animals. The WHO is also coordinating efforts with Uganda, which has reported seven related cases, to ensure that resources and strategies are shared in the fight against the disease.
Referrer: MiMub in Spanish