An anthrax control centre is being established in Don Tan district, Mukdahan province, on Wednesday, 7 May 2025, to coordinate the distribution of preventive medication and monitor individuals at risk of exposure following a confirmed anthrax-related death in the area.
The measure comes in response to the death of one individual from anthrax and subsequent concerns over the health of 636 others who reportedly consumed raw meat. Of those monitored, 538 have been cleared of infection, authorities said. Anthrax, a serious bacterial infection, can be transmitted from infected animals—such as cattle, goats, or sheep—to humans, either through direct contact or by inhaling airborne spores.
Residents of Ban Kok Sawang, where the new control centre is being located, have expressed anxiety about possible exposure due to previous contact with slaughtered livestock. Local leaders have called for clear information on the source of the outbreak to address community fears.
The Ministry of Public Health has instructed the Disease Control Department to remain on high alert to prevent the spread of anthrax beyond Don Tan. In response to regional concerns, the Lao government has issued a ban on cattle imports and animal transits from Thailand into Laos and onward to Vietnam. Domestically, Thailand’s Livestock Development Department is considering temporary closures of cattle markets in northeastern provinces as a preventive step.