Anthrax poisoning has led to the deaths of over 50 hippos and other large animals in Virunga National Park, the oldest nature reserve in Africa, according to the park's director.

0

The animals' lifeless bodies have been seen floating along the Ishasha River, as shown in images shared by park authorities in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Officials say the deaths began occurring last week.

1

Though the exact origin of the outbreak remains unclear, tests have confirmed that anthrax is present.

2

Park director Emmanuel de Merode explained that recovery and burial operations are in progress to contain the outbreak. However, the team is facing challenges due to limited equipment.

3

"It's difficult due to lack of access and logistics," he told Reuters news agency.

4

"We have the means to limit the spread by... burying them with caustic soda."

5

The Ishasha River, which runs north to Lake Edward—one of Africa’s Great Lakes—has seen further reports of dead animals, heightening concerns about the spread.

6

Anthrax is caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis. It can be deadly but doesn't typically spread quickly. The bacteria survive in soil for years in the form of spores and can infect animals through wounds, inhalation, or ingestion.

7

To help protect nearby communities, the Congolese Institute for the Conservation of Nature has urged residents to avoid coming into contact with wildlife and to boil any water collected from nearby sources before drinking.

8

Virunga National Park spans about 7,800 square kilometers (3,000 square miles) and is home to a vast range of species. Despite its ecological richness, the park is considered one of the most dangerous due to ongoing conflict.

9

While it draws tourists, the region has also experienced violent confrontations between rebel militias and government forces. Armed groups seeking control over the area's natural resources continue to operate within and around the park.

10

Over the years, numerous park rangers have lost their lives protecting the animals and environment.

11

In the past, efforts were made to rebuild the park’s hippo population, which once stood at over 20,000 but dropped to just a few hundred due to war and heavy poaching.

12