The sanitary-epidemiological situation in the Otbosar district of Kazakhstan's Oqmola region has sharply deteriorated. This was reported by Zamin.uz.
At the end of June, anthrax disease was detected in this area. Initially, four people were found to be infected, and they received necessary medical assistance, with their condition assessed as moderately severe.
Although the ministry initially announced that quarantine would not be imposed, on July 8, quarantine measures were officially implemented in the Otbosar district. According to Agriculture Minister Aydarbek Saparov, the quarantine was specifically imposed in the two villages where anthrax was detected.
Access to these areas for livestock and residents has been strictly prohibited. Special barriers have been erected, and epidemic response teams have begun disinfection work.
Initial reports indicated that 19 people were infected, one of whom was in serious condition. Later, the ministry updated this information: samples were taken from 19 individuals, of which seven tested positive for anthrax, while the others were found to be uninfected.
According to the ministry, the quarantine measures will last for 15 days. During this time, all necessary preventive measures will be taken in the area, and new test samples will be collected.
If it is determined that the infection has not spread, the quarantine will be lifted. Anthrax is a dangerous infectious disease caused by the Bacillus anthracis bacterium.
Primarily, bacteria living in the soil are transmitted to humans through animals. Infection can occur through contact with infected animals or their products, or by consuming undercooked meat, manifesting in cutaneous, gastrointestinal, or pulmonary forms.
Importantly, the disease does not spread from person to person. Officials are urging the public to exercise caution.
Meat products should only be purchased from stores and markets that have undergone veterinary inspection. In this case, strict preventive measures and proper organizational actions will help prevent the spread of the disease.
