Fourth case of anthrax identified confirmed
Mukdahan's Anthrax Outbreak: Current Standings and Response Measures
The Mukdahan healthcare authorities have confirmed an additional anthrax case, with the total cases in the recent outbreak now standing at four, including one fatality. These incidences mark one of Thailand's rare Anthrax-induced deaths in over three decades.
Three of the infected individuals are hospitalized, two at Mukdahan Hospital and oneat Don Tan Hospital. Out of 638 potentially at-risk individuals, 538 have completed a seven-day observation period. The remaining 98 will conclude their observation on the following day.
The outbreak is believed to have originated from skin contact or the ingestion of contaminated meat, with an incubation period of seven days.
To mitigate the spread, authorities have urged the public to steer clear of raw beef and to only consume thoroughly cooked meat, reaching a minimum internal temperature of 120C, or meat boiled for a minimum of 30 minutes to eradicate any potential Anthrax bacteria.
Dr. Weerawat Manosuthi, Department of Disease Control's spokesperson, outlined the intensified efforts to monitor the outbreak confined to an area within Don Tan district. He stated that health officials focus on early detection of the disease in suspected patients and at-risk groups by closely monitoring and implementing preventive measures.
The first three cases were traced back to three men, who reportedly fell ill after helping to butcher a cow that met an untimely end. One of these individuals has unfortunately succumbed to the disease, while the remaining two are under treatment. Those involved in slaughtering the same cow remain under observation.
Dr. Weerawat stressed the importance of avoiding unsafe meat, particularly during local festivals in light of the outbreak. The provincial livestock office has quarantined 124 animals for 30 days and administered antibiotics and vaccines to a large portion of the livestock population residing in a 5km radius.
Currently, there is no vaccine available for human use, but infections can be effectively treated with intravenous antibiotics. Though infection through inhalation is relatively scarce, it can be severe. Skin infections, on the other hand, are more common but can become deadly if left untreated.
Here are essential facts to bear in mind amidst the ongoing outbreak in Mukdahan:
- Cases and Fatality: The latest reports indicate that four cases of anthrax have been confirmed, resulting in one fatality.
- At-Risk Population: Approximately 638 individuals are considered to be at risk due to potential exposure to the infection through skin contact or ingesting contaminated meat.
- Containment Measures: Infected individuals receive a seven-day course of doxycycline as a preventive measure against the disease. Over 1,200 livestock within a 5km radius are being vaccinated to prevent further spread.
- Public Health Strategies: The Thai government has escalated its efforts, focusing on public health and livestock containment policies to control the disease spread.
- Traveler Advisory: Both travelers and locals are warned against consuming raw or undercooked meat, and to keep themselves informed regarding the anthrax risks.
- Transmission: It is important to know that Anthrax does not spread person-to-person, decreasing the risk of widespread human transmission.
- The ongoing anthrax outbreak in Mukdahan has resulted in four confirmed cases, one of which was fatal.
- As of now, approximately 638 individuals are at risk of anthrax due to potential exposure through skin contact or consumption of contaminated meat.
- Infected individuals are receiving a preventive seven-day course of doxycycline.
- To prevent further spread, over 1,200 livestock in a 5km radius are being vaccinated.
- The Thai government is escalating efforts focusing on public health and livestock containment policies to control the disease.
- It is important to remember that anthrax does not spread person-to-person, decreasing the risk of widespread human transmission. To avoid infection, travelers and locals should avoid consuming raw or undercooked meat and stay informed about the risks.
