Anthrax-contaminated carabao meat downs 36 residents in Abra

BANGUED, Abra, Philippines – At least 36 people were hospitalized after reportedly eating meat of an anthrax-infected carabao in Villaviciosa town, officials here said.

Provincial veterinarian Diosdado Taverner led a team from the Department of Health in assuring the local residents who fear the outbreak of an epidemic.

Taverner said initial findings indicate that there was no spread of the virus and it was an isolated incident.

Taverner though warned residents against partaking of any livestock infected with anthrax.

Initial reports said some of those infected were confined in hospital since May 8.

Taverner and the team later confirmed it was a case of anthrax through clinical manifestations of skin lesions.

To thwart the spread of the fatal disease, the provincial agriculture officials began implementing appropriate measures that included vaccination of livestock in the areas affected. 

Dr. Arlene Sagayo, head of the Animal Services of the Livestock Division of Department of Agriculture, and along with Dr. Michael Crisologo, chief of the OPVET Regulatory Division, made a follow up visit to the area and examined the conditions of the livestock in Villaviciosa to prevent any possible outbreak.

The regional health department, however, has yet to issue a statement over the reported anthrax outbreak.