Anthrax Spreads in Kushtia’s Daulatpur, 54 Infected in Two Months
Anthrax, a bacterial disease that can spread from livestock to humans, is spreading in Daulatpur upazila of Kushtia. A total of 54 people from different areas of the upazila’s 14 unions have been infected between August and Thursday (September 24). Hospital authorities said new patients are arriving at Daulatpur Upazila Health Complex every day with symptoms of the disease.
According to the latest hospital data, 24 patients are currently receiving treatment. Another 30 patients recovered and returned home after treatment in August. Five patients were admitted in serious condition and given intensive treatment. They have since fully recovered.
People from Taragunia, Philipnagar, Hosenabad, Sadipur, Amdah, Goalgram, Rifayetpur, Ibrahim and Pochamadia are among those affected. Doctors said people are mainly becoming infected through contact with sick livestock. Selim Hossain of Bhagjat in Ramkrishnapur Union said he developed a wound after cutting cow meat. Tests at the hospital later confirmed anthrax. He is now recovering with treatment.
Tashen Ali of Mathurapur also recovered after a week of treatment for a non-healing wound on his hand. Doctors said anthrax mainly spreads from cattle, goats, buffaloes and sheep. The bacteria can enter the body through cuts or wounds while handling the meat, skin or remains of infected animals.
People have been advised not to slaughter sick or suddenly dead livestock or buy, sell or eat their meat. Dr Touhidul Hasan Tuhin, head of Daulatpur Upazila Health Complex, urged people not to panic and to seek immediate medical care if they develop suspicious wounds. He also advised informing local livestock officials immediately if any animal becomes sick.
