Dhaka: Due to the outbreak of anthrax disease among cattle in different districts of Bangladesh, the Department of Livestock Services has taken urgent and coordinated activities to prevent and control the spread of anthrax disease. Anthrax is a bacterial zoonotic disease that can be transmitted from cattle to humans, said a press release here today.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the local offices of the Department of Livestock Services, in coordination with the local administration, are continuing to vaccinate cattle, conduct health checkups, and hold courtyard and street meetings. The department is also distributing leaflets and conducting miking activities to raise awareness. Advertisements have been published in national dailies to emphasize prevention and strengthen awareness activities in cooperation with local administrations.
Special initiatives have been implemented to monitor affected areas at the field level, prevent the slaughter of sick animals, and ensure every animal on the farm is vaccinated. Under the ‘One Health’ programme, public awareness activities are being carried out in coordination with the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS).
Officials are conducting public awareness campaigns through regular meetings and workshops, advising not to slaughter sick animals, to avoid disposing of dead animals in open spaces or water, and instead to bury them deeply. In case of any animal-related illness, the public is urged to contact the nearest veterinary hospital or the Department of Livestock Services.
Rangpur and Gaibandha districts have been identified as the most affected areas, with a special vaccination programme underway. The Livestock Research Institute (LRI) will supply about 30 lakh anthrax vaccines to the Rangpur division, with 20 lakh doses going specifically to Rangpur and Gaibandha districts.
In Rangpur district, 1,67,000 cows have been vaccinated so far. Courtyard meetings, street meetings, and training sessions have been conducted. Additionally, 36 medical teams have been formed for health examinations in slaughterhouses, and 32 teams are administering vaccinations in specific areas such as Mithapukur, Pirgachha, and Kaunia.
In Sundarganj upazila of Gaibandha district, 26,400 cows have been vaccinated. Preventive measures such as cow burial, vaccinations, miking, and leaflet distribution have been completed. A fine of TK 15,000 has been collected through a mobile court, and five veterinary medical teams have been established.
Although 11 blood samples tested negative, 10 out of 11 meat samples collected were found positive for anthrax. A high-level investigation team has been formed to assess the source and situation of the infection in Rangpur and Gaibandha districts. The team will visit affected areas and submit a report soon.
The joint efforts of the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, Department of Livestock Services, local administration, DGHS, public representatives, and the people are expected to control the anthrax outbreak effectively.