Kerala on high alert after anthrax cases detected in Athirapally area

Experts said bacteria normally spread through body waste of affected animals after animals come in contact with the affected soil.

The outbreak of anthrax, a bacterium-induced infectious disease, has been confirmed in Athirapally forest range in Thrissur after testing carcasses of wild boars, health officials said on Thursday.

Many wild boars died in the area in the past couple of days and officials sent remains for testing that confirmed presence of anthrax, said health minister Veena George. (HT)

Many wild boars died in the area in the past couple of days and officials sent remains for testing that confirmed presence of anthrax, said health minister Veena George. She said the government has taken enough steps to prevent the spread of the disease.

“In Athirapally area, carcasses of many wild boars were detected in the past one week and forest officials alerted health and forest departments. Samples of these tests confirmed presence of anthrax. People who rear domestic animals will have to take enough precautions,” she said, adding that a survey will be conducted in villages bordering forest areas in Athirapally.

Experts said bacteria normally spread through body waste of affected animals after animals come in contact with the affected soil. Humans can also contract the disease when they come in contact with the contaminated waste of domestic animals, they said.

Common symptoms of the disease in humans are sores, fever, shortness of breath, nausea and heavy sweating and the disease is triggered by a spore-forming bacterium. Antibiotics can cure the infection but it will be fatal if untreated, warned experts.

Athirapally is a favorite tourist destination for its waterfalls. Perched in a scenic location surrounded by green canopy, the 80-feet tall fall is a sought-after cinema shooting location.