An Outbreak of Anthrax in Hippos of Ruaha National Park, Tanzania

Authors

  • E.B. Kapela Ruaha National Park, P.O. Box 369 Iringa
  • N.G. Maiseli Veterinary Investigation Centre, P.O. Box 290, Iringa

Keywords:

Hippopotamus, Bacillus, Wildlife Health, Tanzania, Veterinary

Abstract

An outbreak of anthrax involving only Hippos occurred in Ruaha National Park between September and November 1989. Fifty-three hippos were recorded and confirmed dead of anthrax. Confirmation was based on post-mortem features and demonstration of Bacillus anthracis in dead individuals. Source of  infection  could  not be  established although  vultures  and  the  river  could  have  played  some   role. The latter also could be significant in the subsequent dissemination or infection from decomposing carcasses or the present outbreak. Direct aerial counts after the outbreak showed that only 208 live hippos remained, indicating that loss due to the present outbreak was significant

Additional Files

Published

30-12-1990

How to Cite

Kapela, E. and Maiseli, N. (1990) “An Outbreak of Anthrax in Hippos of Ruaha National Park, Tanzania”, Tanzania Veterinary Journal, 10(4), pp. 139–140. Available at: https://tvj.sua.ac.tz/vet2/index.php/TVJ/article/view/370 (Accessed: 17 April 2026).

Issue

Vol. 10 No. 4 (1990)

Section

CASE REPORTS

License

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