Thailand Issues Health Alert After 1st Anthrax Death In Over 30 Years; Travellers Advised To Stay Alert

If you are planning to travel to Thailand soon, then you should know that the country has issued a health alert. This comes after the popular vacation destination in Asia reported its first anthrax-related death in decades, and even confirmed a second case. The public health alert was issued after Thai authorities identified hundreds potentially exposed to the deadly bacteria.

Thailand Reports First Anthrax Death, Issues Health Alert

With simplified visas and overall affordable travel, Thailand remains a top choice for Indian travellers. However, right now, the Thai government has advised travellers to exercise caution after the country reported its first anthrax death in over three decades. Furthermore, they also confirmed a second case.

According to The Independent, a 53-year-old man in northeastern Thailand’s Mukdahan province died on Wednesday after contracting anthrax. A second case has also been confirmed in the same province. Additionally, three additional suspected cases are under investigation.

Local authorities have identified at least 638 people as being potentially exposed after eating raw meat. The Livestock Department of Thailand is overseeing containment efforts in the affected area. They have marked a 5-km quarantine zone around the infection site. Thailand has now asked all foreign visitors to submit a pre-departure digital form. With this, they aim to help authorities track travellers.

Also Read: What Is Thailand’s Mandatory Digital Arrival Card & How To Apply For It?

More About Anthrax & Previous Cases

Anthrax is a rare and serious disease that spreads through bacteria in soil. It is often transmitted through contact with infected animals or consumption of contaminated meat. It is to be noted that it does not spread person-to-person. Thailand last reported human anthrax cases in 2017. Two people were infected without fatalities. Before that, in 2000, 15 cases were recorded, also without deaths.

The recent death was the first anthrax fatality in Thailand since 1994. Back then, three people died, and it was followed by a rise in regional infections. Neighbouring counties like Laos reported 129 anthrax infections last year, including one death. Meanwhile, Vietnam confirmed 13 cases in May 2023.

Also Read: Solo Traveller Discovers Man Hiding Under Bed At Japanese Hotel, Sparks Safety Concerns

Thailand is continuing investigations into the source of the anthrax infection. Till then, they have heightened surveillance in border areas and issued alerts.

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva