Watch Out for Anthrax Following First Patient Diagnosis in Mukdahan

Mukdahan: The Department of Livestock Development has issued a warning to both farmers and the general public to remain vigilant regarding anthrax, following the confirmation of the first human case in Mukdahan Province. The patient, who has a history of butchering and consuming raw beef, has prompted authorities to collect initial samples of meat and environmental specimens for analysis. So far, no animals in the area have shown signs of illness or abnormal death. According to Thai News Agency, Veterinarian Boonyakrit Pinprasong, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Livestock Development, reported that the confirmed anthrax patient from Don Tan District was initially treated at Don Tan Hospital before being transferred to Mukdahan Hospital. The patient presented with a wound on the right hand and swollen lymph nodes in the right armpit. Medical examination revealed a history of butchering and consuming raw beef, leading to an initial diagnosis of septic shock. Laboratory tests conducted by the Natio nal Institute of Health Sciences, Department of Medical Sciences, Ministry of Public Health confirmed the presence of Bacillus anthracis, the bacterium responsible for anthrax. Anthrax is a zoonotic disease caused by Bacillus anthracis. It can be transmitted to humans through breathing or consuming contaminated food. Infected animals can succumb to the disease quickly, with symptoms that include the sudden death and dark-black blood oozing from their orifices. For humans, handling or eating undercooked meat from infected animals can result in wounds, and if not treated promptly, potentially lead to fatal outcomes. The Department of Livestock Development has taken several precautionary measures, including collecting various samples for examination at the Veterinary Research and Development Center in Khon Kaen Province. The measures also include: 1. Quarantining and observing animals for symptoms, administering penicillin antibiotics for at least 3-5 days. 2. Restricting the movement of animals in and out o f the affected area. 3. Advising against bringing cattle into high-risk areas. 4. Vaccinating animals in the affected sub-district against anthrax. 5. Disinfecting animal slaughtering areas and other high-risk locations. 6. Monitoring and testing soil samples in animal pens. 7. Keeping a close watch on sick animals in Don Tan District. 8. Advising farmers to report sudden animal deaths or unusual symptoms to authorities immediately. 9. Urging the public to avoid consuming raw meat. The Livestock Department has called for cooperation from farmers. They are advised to report any unusual animal illness or death to livestock officials, volunteers, or local authorities for immediate assistance. Reports can also be made via the DLD 4.0 application or by calling the hotline at 063-225-6888.