Man Dies After Eating Infected Meat in Thailand
Thailand has confirmed its first death from Anthrax in over 30 years. The victim was a 53-year-old man from Mukdahan province who died after being exposed to infected meat during a religious ceremony involving a cow slaughter. This has raised serious health concerns across the region.
Anthrax: A Rare But Dangerous Infection
Anthrax is caused by Bacillus anthracis, a bacteria that forms spores and is mainly found in livestock like cows, goats, and sheep. Though rare, humans can get infected through contact with sick animals or by consuming contaminated meat.
There are three main types of anthrax:
- Skin anthrax: The most common form. It occurs when spores enter through cuts or wounds, leading to black sores, fever, and muscle aches.
- Gastrointestinal anthrax: Comes from eating infected meat and can cause severe abdominal pain, bloody vomiting, and diarrhea.
- Inhalation anthrax: The rarest and deadliest form. When spores are breathed in, it can cause severe breathing problems. Without treatment, it can be fatal in up to 90% of cases.
Hundreds Under Medical Watch
Health officials have identified at least 638 people who may have come into contact with infected meat. Among these individuals, 36 helped butcher the animal, while the remaining individuals reportedly consumed raw or undercooked beef. All of them are currently under close observation by the Ministry of Public Health.
In addition to the deceased, one other person has tested positive for anthrax, and three more suspected cases are under investigation. Authorities are working swiftly to prevent further spread of the disease.
How the Disease Was Contracted
According to initial investigations, the cow involved in the religious ritual was infected. Its meat was shared and eaten within the village, exposing many to the dangerous bacteria. The man who died was a construction worker who also had diabetes, which may have worsened his condition. He first developed symptoms on April 24, including a black lesion on his hand, swollen lymph nodes, fainting, and seizures.
Anthrax in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)
The United Nations has reported a separate anthrax outbreak in North Kivu Province, DRC. One person has died, and there are 16 suspected cases. This region is already experiencing instability due to ongoing conflict, which makes controlling the outbreak more challenging.
Conclusion
Since 1994, Thailand has not reported any deaths caused by anthrax. The last confirmed human cases occurred in 2017, when two individuals were infected but successfully recovered. In 2000, there were 15 reported cases, none of which resulted in fatalities.
Thai authorities are advising the public to avoid eating raw or undercooked meat and to handle livestock with caution. They are also actively tracing the source of the infection to prevent any further spread.
Source: Inputs from various media Sources
Priya Bairagi
Reviewed by Dr Aarti Nehra (MBBS, MMST)
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
