The Department of Health has allayed public fears about the deadly infectious disease called anthrax which is currently spreading in other countries.
In a statement on Saturday, the Health department said anthrax “does not spread from person to person like colds or the flu.”
“It is caused by a bacterium called Bacillus anthracis, which produces spores. Animals like livestock are the ones most affected,” it said.
“The risk of the general public getting infected by Anthrax is very low,” it added.
The department said veterinarians, farmers, livestock personnel, and other workers who handle animals and their products, however, may have a higher risk.
“Because the risk is specific to certain populations and occupations, available vaccines for anthrax are not used for the general population,” it said.
“The public can avoid getting Anthrax by avoiding raw or undercooked meat or meat products. Avoid contact with livestock or animal remains,” it added.
The agency also said that it is closely monitoring developments in other countries that have reported a higher than usual number of anthrax cases.
“The DOH shall also be coordinating with the Department of Agriculture for preventive measures for animals including livestock,” it said.
In the Philippines, only 82 suspected anthrax cases were recorded over seven years, from January 1, 2017 to December 31, 2023.
There were no reported anthrax health events from 2019 to 2021; neither has there been any from January 1 to March 29, 2024.
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