Thailand Reports First Anthrax Death in 30 Years, Triggers Public Health Alert
Thailand has reported its first anthrax-related death in three decades, prompting health authorities to issue a public alert after hundreds were potentially exposed to the deadly bacteria in Mukdahan province.
A 53-year-old man died on Wednesday after contracting anthrax. Another confirmed case and three additional suspected cases are currently under investigation, according to Dr. Narong Chankaeo, chief of the provincial health office.
The deceased and a friend, who is currently receiving hospital treatment and expected to recover, both exhibited symptoms such as skin lesions and rashes on their hands. The infected survivor was reportedly in good health prior to the illness and has not developed severe symptoms.
Widespread Exposure in Don Tan District
Don Tan district, located across the Mekong River from Laos—where dozens of anthrax cases were reported in 2023—has been declared a disease control zone. Health officials have identified 638 individuals who may have been exposed through activities like butchering or eating raw or undercooked beef. All have been prescribed doxycycline, a broad-spectrum antibiotic.
Anthrax is not transmitted between humans, but rather from infected animals to humans, typically through skin contact, ingestion, or inhalation.
Regional Alert and Preventive Measures
Neighboring provinces Amnat Charoen, Kalasin, and Nakhon Phanom have been placed on high alert, with authorities advising residents to avoid consuming raw beef.
The Department of Livestock Development plans to vaccinate around 1,200 cattle within a 5-kilometre radius of the outbreak zone, although no livestock in the area have shown signs of illness.
Thailand’s last reported human anthrax cases occurred in 2017, with two infections and no fatalities. The last anthrax-related death occurred in 1994, when three people died.
The new case follows a rising trend of anthrax infections in the region: Laos reported 129 cases in 2023, including one death, while Vietnam confirmed 13 cases in May 2023.
