K V Kurmanath

Hyderabad, Nov 14 Fresh reports of anthrax in sheep and goats in the Tekkali division of Srikakulam district indicate the recurrence of the disease in Andhra Pradesh.

Though the condition is “well under control and nothing much to worry”, the Veterinary Biological Research Institute (VBRI), here has called for widespread awareness and vaccination in the problem areas .

Experts call for co-ordinated efforts to tackle this disease as it is zoonatic, a disease transmitted to human beings from animals. However, unlike in animals, it is not fatal for humans in most cases.

“The disease killed as many as 55 goats in Konda Bhimapuram near Tekkali. We have started vaccinating the cattle in the area and covered 5,600 animals,” an official said.

Positive cases of anthrax were also being reported in Vizianagaram, Visakpatnam and Chittoor districts. A team of scientists found the disease in humans first in August in Bhogapuram and Bhimunipatnam near Visakhapatnam. They contacted the disease from the infected dead cattle.

This is not the first time that the cattle are infected with the disease. Last year too, there was a break out in the same area. “We need to give vaccination to the animals every nine months for five consecutive years in a radius of 5-10 kilometres in the affected area,” Dr M Sudarshana Rao, Disease Investigation in-charge at the VBRI, told Business Line.

The Institute which confirmed the disease has sent 12,500 doses of vaccine to the affected area.

“Even if we cannot cover the whole cattle population, we need to reach the critical mass of at least 80 per cent. This would develop herd immunity, a very important factor in arresting the spread,” he said.

Interestingly, the disease is not uncontrollable. If the anthrax-hit animals are buried with lime or other disinfectants , the bacteria would perish. “The owners of animals hold the key. They should inform the nearest vet the moment they find the symptoms. If the infected animal is cut open, the bacteria will multiply indefinitely and spread in the surroundings,” Dr Sudarshana Rao said.

In many cases, instead of disposing of the dead animal villagers resort to selling it in the market or eat its meat, inviting trouble. In the present instance, the officials of Animal Husbandry Department have tipped off their peers in the Medical and Health Department on the anthrax incidence. “Anthrax in animals will have a fallout on humans. We have sent them reports,” the official said.

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