Uganda is responding to anthrax outbreaks in several districts, with cases reported in parts of western and central Uganda during 2026, according to Ministry of Health surveillance data.
The country’s first response in the current surveillance period was activated in Kazo District on 18 October 2024. By Epidemiological Week 36, covering 31 August to 6 September 2026, Kazo had recorded 157 cases, including 87 confirmed cases, and two deaths.
Three additional district responses were activated in July 2026.
In Lyantonde, the response began on 11 July, with 38 cases and two deaths reported.
On 20 July, responses were activated in Mbarara and Sheema. Sheema recorded six deaths among its reported cases.
The response then expanded to Rakai on 15 August, where 11 cases and five deaths were recorded.
Across the country, laboratory testing had identified 86 positive human anthrax samples from 248 specimens collectedby the end of Week 36.
The figures show that anthrax remained an active public health concern across several districts as Uganda entered September.
Anthrax is a disease that can affect both animals and humans, making detection and response dependent on information from communities, health facilities and animal health services.
The surveillance data show where human cases have been reported but do not explain whether the outbreaks in the different districts are epidemiologically linked.
Timeline
18 October 2024: Anthrax response activated in Kazo.
11 July 2026: Response activated in Lyantonde.
20 July: Responses activated in Mbarara and Sheema.
15 August: Response activated in Rakai.
31 August–6 September: Epi Week 36 surveillance period.
6 September: National surveillance records 86 laboratory-positive human anthrax samples from 248 specimens tested.
Source: Uganda Ministry of Health national surveillance data, Epidemiological Week 36, 31 August–6 September 2026.
