Anthrax outbreak in northern Thailand: update

In Thailand, Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin has ordered enhanced surveillance and response measures after the confirmation of three anthrax cases in the northern province of Mukdahan. One of them died, while the other two are currently treated in hospital. Over 600 persons had contact with the infected individuals, with 538 already completing the 7-day observation period for symptoms. The remaining are still under close monitoring and receiving Doxycycline as a preventive measure. Somsak also confirmed an outbreak of Streptococcus suis infection, commonly known as “raw pork disease”, in the Phrae province. So far, there have been 14 cases and 2 deaths linked to the consumption of raw pork dishes like larb moo. Somsak urged people with symptoms such as fever and muscle pain after eating raw pork to seek immediate medical attention and inform doctors of their dietary habits. Inter-agency cooperation is ongoing to contain the outbreak, with regular updates provided as the situation evolves.