AMID an anthrax outbreak in Laos, the Department of Health (DOH) said the risk of transmission among humans is “very low.”
“Anthrax does not spread from person to person, like colds or flu,” it said in a statement issued late Saturday.
“The risk of the general public getting infected by anthrax is very low,” it added.
Anthrax, according to the DOH, is a serious, potentially deadly infection caused by the Bacillus anthracis bacteria naturally found in soil and commonly affects domestic and wild animals. It may be transmitted when people come in contact with infected animals or contaminated animal products.
Symptoms of anthrax include having a group of small blisters or bumps that may itch, and swelling around the sore.
The health department said humans who may have a higher risk of getting anthrax infection are “veterinarians, farmers, livestock personnel, and other workers, who handle animals and their products.”
Nevertheless, it advised the public to avoid having contact with livestock or animal remains.
“The public can avoid getting anthrax by avoiding raw or undercooked meat or meat products,” it added.
The DOH assured the public it will closely monitor developments in other countries that have reported a higher than usual number of anthrax cases.
From January 1, 2017 to March 29, 2024, there have been 82 suspected anthrax cases in the Philippines.
