NAKURU, Kenya, Apr 7 – At least ten buffaloes have died at the Lake Nakuru National Park following an anthrax breakout.
According to the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), the first incident was reported on Friday last week.
The organisation’s Head of Corporate Communication Paul Gathitu said officers from KWS veterinary Department moved swiftly to avoid more deaths and ensure proper disposal of carcasses.
Gathitu said a surveillance team was on the ground and that several white rhinos had also been vaccinated against the disease due to their close contact with the buffalos.
Addressing the media at the park today, Gathitu said the ongoing drought had contributed to the outbreak.
“If the food is too dry the animals’ body system is unable to support itself,” said Gathitu.
Cases of anthrax in cattle have also been reported in Elburgon and Rongai areas of Nakuru County.
In 2015, the park lost more than 100 buffalos to the disease.
The park which is a sanctuary for rhinos has a population of 4500 bufallos which is beyond its holding capacity
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