In early May 2025, Thailand reported four cases of cutaneous anthrax to the World Health Organization (WHO). One of the patients unfortunately died due to the severity of the condition, while the other three patients received timely medical treatment. All cases had direct contact with cattle suspected of being infected with anthrax. The national health authorities of Thailand acted promptly, launched on-site investigations, and identified all potentially exposed individuals, providing post-exposure prophylaxis measures for high-risk contacts.
Between May 1st and May 4th, Thailand confirmed another four cases of cutaneous anthrax, including one death. These cases all occurred in Mudahan Province near the border with Laos and were related to the activities of slaughtering dairy cows. The first cow was slaughtered on April 12th and its meat was distributed to the villagers. The second cow was slaughtered on April 28th. All confirmed cases were believed to have been infected through contact with meat or animals during the slaughtering process.
The first case presented with a rash on the right hand, which then developed into a clearly visible lesion and passed away on April 27th due to the deterioration of the condition. The other three patients presented with pustular and vesicular lesions and have recovered and been discharged after treatment. Laboratory tests confirmed that all four patients were infected with Bacillus anthracis.
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