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Anthrax infections are rising again in Daulatpur upazila of Kushtia, with both livestock and people being affected, according to the district health authorities.
A total of 54 people have been diagnosed with anthrax in the upazila over the past two months, raising concern among local residents.
Health officials said anthrax infections have been reported in Kushtia since 2010. Although the outbreak had eased in recent years, cases have recently increased in several areas of Daulatpur.
Reports of anthrax among cattle and other livestock have emerged from villages across the upazila’s 14 unions.
Among those affected is Nusaiaba, an 18-month-old child from Hosenabad Matpara. Family members said small blisters initially appeared on the child’s body before turning dark and developing into larger sores. The child is now suffering from pain and receiving treatment.
Yusuf Sardar of Gachherdiar area was also diagnosed with anthrax. He developed blisters two days after slaughtering a sick cow belonging to a relative. Medical tests later confirmed the infection, and he is now undergoing treatment.
Local residents said cattle and goats in some areas have been dying suddenly after developing fever and other symptoms. People can also become infected through contact with infected or dead livestock.
The district health department said anthrax patients receive treatment throughout the year, but 54 new cases were detected in Daulatpur in August and September.
Daulatpur Upazila Health and Family Planning Officer Touhidul Hasan Tuhin advised people not to panic but to remain cautious. He urged anyone developing unusual blisters or sores to seek medical attention promptly.
Kushtia Civil Surgeon Dr Sheikh Mohammad Kamal Hossain advised people to avoid contact with sick or dead livestock and said meat from infected animals should never be consumed. He also urged people showing symptoms to seek treatment without delay.
Meanwhile, the district livestock department has launched a vaccination programme to control anthrax among livestock. Livestock officials said regular vaccination and promptly reporting sick animals to the authorities could help contain the spread.
Officials stressed that awareness is key to preventing further infections. They advised people not to slaughter sick or dead livestock, consume meat from affected animals or come into contact with infected animals, and to seek medical advice promptly if blisters or sores develop.
