Anthrax outbreak in a resort area: four people hospitalized, one died (4 photos)

In Thailand, for the first time in a quarter of a century, a death from anthrax has been recorded, and four more people are under observation by doctors. The infection occurred after contact with sick animals or animal products.





Anthrax is a particularly dangerous infectious disease caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis. The cutaneous form can develop when spores enter a cut or scratch.



Last month, four cases of anthrax were detected in Thailand. All the cases were people between the ages of 30 and 50. Among them, three were men and one was a woman.

The victim of the infection was a 53-year-old patient. After slaughtering a cow, the Thai man developed a wound on his arm, but he sought medical help only two weeks later. His condition deteriorated sharply. The ulcer turned black, the lymph nodes swelled, dizziness and convulsions were added.

The man died on the third day of hospitalization. The three other patients recovered.





A fifth case was identified on May 28.

Samples taken from residents of Mukdahan province in the northeast of the country, which borders Laos, confirmed anthrax infection. Analysis of kitchen utensils and animal meat also revealed the pathogen.



Authorities have identified 636 more people who may have contracted the infection by handling or eating livestock. They have also disinfected 23 high-risk farms and vaccinated animals.

WHO believes that the risk of local or global spread is minimal. Anthrax is not transmitted from person to person. The disease is usually treatable if help is provided in time.