Anthrax manifests itself in three forms: skin, gastrointestinal or respiratory. The symptoms can last anywhere from 1 to 7 days, with a red, itchy rash that develops into black sores. CDC
The Ministry of Health has issued an urgent public warning about the dangers of anthrax. The notice follows recent outbreaks in neighbouring countries and beyond.
Anthrax, also known as charcoal poisoning in humans and black blood disease in animals, is caused by a spore-forming bacterium called Bacillus anthracis.
“The ministry highlights that anthrax is rare but can be a serious illness, primarily affecting livestock and wildlife,” said the May 6 notice.
“One unique feature of the anthrax bacterium is that it can survive in the form of spores in the environment for many years (up to 30-40 years), making it a serious risk,” it added.
These spores are resilient and can persist in soil, carcasses and manure, creating a potential hazard for herbivores such as cattle, buffalo, sheep, goats and horses, which can contract the disease.
“Humans can become infected through direct contact with infected animals (especially through broken skin), inhaling dust containing anthrax spores, eating contaminated meat or using syringes shared with someone who has anthrax,” said the ministry.
While there is no evidence to suggest that anthrax can spread directly from person to person, the skin lesions of an anthrax patient can be highly contagious.
Symptoms of anthrax can vary. The disease manifests in three forms: depending on the type of infection: skin, gastrointestinal or respiratory. These symptoms can last anywhere from 1 to 7 days.
“For skin infections, a red, itchy rash often turns into black lesions,” said the ministry.
“Gastrointestinal symptoms resemble food poisoning but can progress to more severe conditions like vomiting blood and bloody diarrhea. Respiratory infections, though rare, can be life-threatening, with symptoms such as fever, difficulty breathing and blood clots in the heart,” it added.
To prevent transmission, the ministry advised that dead animals should be buried or burned. It reiterated that anthrax is treatable, and a vaccine is available.
“If you suspect that you or someone else has been infected, seek immediate medical attention or contact the emergency number 115,” it continued.
The ministry will continue to share public health updates through its official social media channels and the website www.cdcmoh.gov.kh.
