KWS WARNS THIKA RESIDENTS AGAINST EATING HYENA MEAT

Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has issued an urgent public health warning following a disturbing incident in Kamenu Location, Thika West Sub-County, where residents chased, killed, slaughtered a hyena found feeding on poultry remains.

According to KWS, the incident occurred at approximately 8:00 AM local time. A hyena was discovered feeding on dumped poultry remains in the area. The animal was quickly surrounded by members of the public, chased down, killed, and slaughtered before wildlife response teams could arrive at the scene.

Several individuals fled with portions of the hyena’s carcass, including internal organs, despite the obvious health risks associated with consuming scavenger meat. KWS has warned the public against handling or consuming any meat from the animal, saying that hyenas are scavengers and may carry a range of dangerous zoonotic diseases.

“Diseases that can be transmitted from hyenas to humans include Rabies, Anthrax, Brucellosis, and foodborne infections such as Salmonella and E. coli,“ KWS stated in its advisory.

The public is advised not to consume the meat and to surrender it immediately to authorities, while anyone who has been exposed should seek medical attention without delay; the killing and consumption of wildlife is illegal and punishable by law, protect your health, say no to bush meat.