At least one person died while 222 others were treated and discharged from hospitals after they consumed meat of a cow that had died out of anthrax in a village in Maua, Meru County.
The incident happened in Itumi village on April 16, police said.
The victims had been rushed or walked to Nyambene Sub County Hospital after they consumed meat from a cow that died in Buriemaria village on April 8, 2026, police and locals said.
A meat inspector had recommended the carcass be buried. But the villagers decided to slaughter and share the meat.
One person who was in hospital after consuming the meat and identified as Ken Muriuki, 37 died in hospital.
Local administrators rushed to the villages informing those who consumed the meat to seek medical attention.
It was then a total of 222 people flocked in for medical attention.
Police said data collected showed the victims included 150 and 72 children.
More veterinarians were sent to the village for more action to address any more fears of an outbreak.
They were out to immunize other animals in the area.
Locals were advised to cooperate with the teams.
Anthrax is a serious decease that is usually caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis bacteria.
The bacteria are found naturally in soil around the world and often affect livestock and wild animals. People usually get sick if they come in contact with anthrax spores in infected animals or contaminated animal products.
Infection typically occurs by contact with the skin, inhalation, or intestinal absorption.
The skin form presents with a small blister with surrounding swelling that often turns into a painless ulcer with a black center.
The intestinal form presents with diarrhea (which may contain blood), abdominal pains, nausea, and vomiting.
Immunizing animals against anthrax is recommended in areas where previous infections have occurred.
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