No new anthrax infections found in Thailand’s Mukdahan province
Raw pork disease cases cease in northeast Thailand, health minister orders vigilance
The anthrax situation in Mukdahan province is showing signs of improvement, with the Public Health Ministry reporting no new cases as of yesterday, May 5.
The province has recorded three anthrax cases, according to Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin. Of these cases, one person has died, while two remain hospitalised.
Some 636 people in the province have come into contact with the disease. Of these, 538 have completed a seven-day quarantine, while the remainder are still under observation.
Doxycycline, an antibiotic, was administered to those affected. Minister Somsak has instructed the provincial health office to maintain strict surveillance measures even after the disease’s incubation period concludes tomorrow, May 7.
He stated that careful monitoring of the public health situation will help mitigate public concern over the spread of the disease.
Anthrax transmission occurs from infected animals to humans, but not between humans. The virus, which occurs naturally in soil and water, can remain viable for years due to its resistant spores.
Minister Somsak also noted that the ministry is collaborating with related agencies to prevent further spread of the disease. The public has been advised to consume only cooked beef and heed disease alerts issued by officials.
Dr Narong Junkaew, head of Mukdahan’s public health office, reported that the source of the outbreak has been traced to cows slaughtered on April 12 and 28.
The fatality and two hospitalisations were linked to the first slaughter, while no illnesses have been reported from the second, reported Bangkok Post.
A 53 year old man died on April 30 after contracting anthrax. The deceased and his friend developed skin lesions and rashes on their hands, typical signs of cutaneous anthrax. While the friend remained in hospital, his condition is stable and he is expected to recover within two weeks if no complications arise. Authorities are monitoring those potentially exposed to prevent further spread.
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