DOH allays public fears over anthrax

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH) has allayed public fears over the possible entry of anthrax into the country, saying it does not spread from person to person like common cold or flu.

The DOH issued the statement after more than 50 suspected anthrax cases involving humans were reported in Laos.

Based on DOH data, 82 suspected anthrax cases were recorded in the Philippines over the past seven years.

“There were no reported anthrax health events from 2019 to 2021 and neither from Jan. 1 to March 29 this year,” the DOH noted.

“The risk of the public getting infected with anthrax is very low,” the DOH added.

The infection can be prevented by not eating raw or undercooked meat products and avoiding contact with carcasses of animals.

The Department of Agriculture assured the public that the government is ready in case anthrax enters the Philippines.

Agriculture Assistant Secretary for livestock Constante Palabrica said the country has developed a vaccine against anthrax.